Immunomodulatory effects of 2-deoxyglucose on peripheral blood mononuclear cells: Implications in COVID-19 treatment

Abstract

PBMCs play a significant role to produce a wide range of cytokines in non-specific immune response. This might the PBMCs play in important role in the cytokines storm generated in severe case in covid-19. This study examines the relationship of 2-DG in modulating the LPS induce release of proinflammatory cytokines from PBMCs. ELISA was used to estimate the absolute value of cytokines, and statistical analysis was performed. The results showed that LPS treatment significantly increased the levels of both TNF-α, and IL-6 compared to control, while co-treatment with 2-DG prevented the LPS effect on PBMCs. These findings suggest that 2-DG might act as an immunomodulator which explain how it showed some beneficial effect in the treatment of COVID-19.