Molecular and cellular biomarkers in COVID-19 prognosis: design and methods – a prospective cohort TARGET protocol. (Preprint)
BACKGROUND Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world’s attention has been focused on better understanding the relations between the human host and the SARS-CoV-2 virus, as its action has led to hundreds of thousands of deaths. Objective: In this context, we decided to study certain consequences of the abundant cytokine release over the innate and adaptive immune systems, inflammation and haemostasis, comparing mild and severe forms of COVID-19. OBJECTIVE : In this context, we decided to study certain consequences of the abundant cytokine release over the innate and adaptive immune systems, inflammation and haemostasis, comparing mild and severe forms of COVID-19. METHODS To accomplish these aims, we will analyse demographic characteristics, biochemical tests, immune biomarkers, leukocyte phenotyping, immunoglobulin profile, hormonal release (cortisol and prolactin), gene expression, thromboelastometry, neutralizing antibodies, metabolic profile and neutrophil function (ROS and NET production, phagocytosis, migration, gene expression and proteomics). Two hundred RT-PCR confirmed patients will be enrolled and divided into two groups: mild/moderate or severe/critical forms of COVID-19. Blood samples will be collected at different times: at inclusion and after 9 and 18 days, with an additional 3-day sample for severe patients. RESULTS No data collection. CONCLUSIONS We believe that this information will provide more knowledge for ensuing studies that will provide more robust and useful clinical information that may allow for better decisions at the frontlines of health assistance. CLINICALTRIAL RBR-62zdkk