Since coronaviruses depend on the functions of their host cells in order to multiply, and these functions in turn depend on the mechanical properties of the cell, we suspect that the mechanics and functions of cells in older people may favour the multiplication of the virus. Biopsies or cell culture experiments could now be used to determine whether this is indeed the case.
Keeping an eye on behaviour
Our reasoning can also indicate where to concentrate additional efforts in the quest for drugs to combat COVID-19. One focus of research is to stall the viral entry into a cell. Scientists are currently looking to develop inhibitors to prevent the virus from infecting cells in this way. Given our hypothesis, and that coronavirus entry into a cell is similar even in those with mild symptoms, the quest for drugs should also include inhibitors that intersect with coronavirus replication and the mechanical properties of cells.
We plan to develop in-vitro models and machine learning methodology that will be well-suited for testing the effectiveness of small molecules, both approved drugs that could be repurposed and newly developed ones. It’s essential that research on SARS-CoV-2 focus not just on the virus itself, but also on how the virus behaves in the cells of young and old people. And we should look not only at the genomic differences between these cells, but also at their mechanical differences.
