This paper addresses the possible proposed neurotropic mechanisms of COVID-19 virus and its analogies and differences with SARS-CoV virus. Indeed, similar to SARS-CoV, COVID-19 virus exploits the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor to gain entry inside the cells. In particular, the authors investigate the density of the expression levels of ACE2 in the central nervous system, the host−virus interaction and relate this to the pathogenesis and complications seen in the recent cases resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak.
by Marialuisa Zedde and Francesco Cavallieri
