Cytokine Storm and Immunomodulation in COVID-19: A Review

Abstract

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has taken over the world, and more than 38 lakh deaths have been reported till now due to this infectious disease. It has been declared a global pandemic by the world health organization. SARS-CoV-2 causes coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), and the major problem called "Cytokine storm" is reported, which may lead to death among the COVID-19 patients. This study aimed to review the Cytokine storm and its mechanism along with few immunomodulatory therapies for SARS-CoV-2 infection suppression effectively. Methods: The recently published works of literature were selected and reviewed based on the subject of this study. The databases, including Pubmed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were searched extensively. Results: The review of the literature showed that an uncontrolled immune response causes excess inflammation. Evidence from recent trials has demonstrated that cytokine storms can be an important factor in the COVID-19 severity, leading to multiple organ failure and death. Conclusion: This study reviewed immunomodulatory therapies and strategies for SARS-CoV-2 infected patients to suppress the immune response. Ultimately, the cytokine storm can prove to be a boon and reduce the significant death tolls to SARS-CoV-2 infection.