COVID-19 pathogenesis: Immune dynamics,inflammatory cascades,and therapeutic frontiers

1. Introduction

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has triggered an unprecedented global pandemic, resulting in over 775 million confirmed cases and more than 7 million deaths worldwide as of early 2024. ¹ As a member of the Coronaviridae family, SARS-CoV-2 is an enveloped, positive-sense RNA virus capable of infecting both humans and animals (Figure 1). SARS-CoV-2 variants have continuously evolved through genetic and antigenic changes, enabling immune evasion from prior infection or vaccination. ² This drives breakthrough infections despite existing immunity.^3,4 Notably, Omicron variants exhibit tropism for the upper respiratory tract (e.g., nasal epithelium and oropharynx), contrasting with earlier variants, such as Delta, which predominantly targeted the lower respiratory tract (e.g., alveoli). ⁵ OPEN IN VIEWER

Despite the passage of time, novel SARS-CoV-2 variants continue to emerge rapidly, such as JN.1, which has gained global prominence. Derived from BA.2.86—the only other strain to accumulate over 30 novel mutations in the spike protein since Omicron’s initial appearance more than two years ago—JN.1 has become the dominant variant in the United States. ⁶ While later variants like JN.1 demonstrate increased transmissibility, hospitalizations and deaths have remained relatively lower compared to earlier pandemic waves, largely due to accumulated population immunity from vaccination and prior infection. To address the evolving viral landscape and waning vaccine efficacy, vaccine formulations and public health policies have been updated to sustain protection against severe disease and mortality.^7,8

Viral RNA (vRNA) has been detected in blood, serum, and plasma samples from infected individuals.^9,10 Moreover, SARS-CoV-2 exhibits a preferential infection of cells expressing blood group A antigens.^11,12 Approximately 80% of COVID-19 cases are mild or asymptomatic, presenting symptoms similar to the common cold, including dry cough, headache, anosmia, dyspnea, fatigue, and fever. ¹³ These cases are generally controlled by an effective immune response. However, about 15% of patients develop severe disease requiring intensive care and oxygen therapy, while roughly 5% progress to critical illness characterized by life-threatening pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and septic shock. ¹⁴

The overactivation of these signaling pathways by SARS-CoV-2 results in organ damage, cytokine storm (CS), and ultimately death (Figure 2). ¹⁵ Furthermore, the virus’s high mutability and the continuous emergence of new variants present significant challenges for the identification, prevention, and treatment of COVID-19.^16,17 The more recent Omicron variants are particularly concerning due to their increased infectivity and enhanced ability to evade the human immune response.OPEN IN VIEWER

The inflammatory response to SARS-CoV-2 infection involves a coordinated activation of multiple defense mechanisms. Initially, macrophages act as the first line of defense by engulfing pathogens and releasing cytokines that recruit other immune cells.^18,19 These cytokines, exhibiting both pro- and anti-inflammatory properties, constitute the second line of defense by stimulating B and T lymphocytes to produce antibodies and induce apoptosis of infected cells, thereby aiding pathogen clearance. The third and most significant mechanism is the eicosanoid pathway, which catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, prostacyclins, and thromboxane, molecules essential for resolving inflammation. ²⁰

Inflammatory mediators involved in this response are classified into three main groups. Preformed mediators such as histamine, serotonin, and lysosomal enzymes are stored in mast cells, platelets, neutrophils, and macrophages, ready for immediate release even without inflammatory triggers. Newly synthesized mediators, including eicosanoids (prostaglandins, leukotrienes) and cytokines, are produced during inflammation by leukocytes, platelets, endothelial cells, and macrophages. Complement factors, activated via a cascade of plasma proteins, release intermediates like C3a, C5a, and the membrane attack complex C5b-9, which further stimulate complement-clotting-kinin pathways leading to blood clotting and pain.^21,22

Severe COVID-19 is characterized by an exaggerated and systemic inflammatory reaction, with elevated cytokine levels detected in the lungs and bloodstream. ²³ This cytokine production is triggered by the recognition of viral pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and host-derived danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) signaling tissue injury. ²⁴ SARS-CoV-2 infection induces the release of potent proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and IL-17, which can precipitate sepsis.^25,26

While the immune system’s primary role is to defend against pathogens, uncontrolled immune activation can result in a cytokine storm (CS), a hyperinflammatory state that significantly contributes to COVID-19 severity. The activation of inflammatory signaling pathways and the ensuing cytokine storm are pivotal in the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multiple organ failure (MOF) in affected patients (Figure 3).^27–31OPEN IN VIEWER

Currently, no specific cure for COVID-19 exists, but several therapeutic strategies have been proposed, including cytokine inhibitors, JAK inhibitors, immunomodulators, and plasma therapy.^32–34 This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 induces inflammatory storms and its interplay with pre-existing inflammatory conditions. The primary scope of this review is to critically synthesize the molecular and cellular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation and immune dysregulation. We aim to move beyond description by evaluating the strength and consistency of the evidence, discussing competing hypotheses, and providing an in-depth analysis of the promises and pitfalls of current therapeutic strategies.

2. Methods

This study is a narrative review. To ensure a comprehensive and systematic literature search, we queried major electronic databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, for articles published so far. Key search terms included: “SARS-CoV-2,” “COVID-19,” “pathogenesis,” “immune response,” “inflammation,” “cytokine storm,” “T cells,” “macrophages,” “neutrophils,” “therapy,” “treatment,” and “variants.” The search strategy combined these terms using Boolean operators (AND, OR). Included studies were original research articles, clinical trials, and meta-analyses published in English. Review articles and commentaries were consulted for background context but were not the primary source of evidence. The selection process prioritized high-impact studies that elucidated key mechanisms or provided robust clinical data, with particular attention to contradictory findings to facilitate a critical analysis.

3. Viral pathogenesis and immune evasion

4. Inflammation signaling pathways

Inflammation manifests through symptoms such as fever, cardiovascular complications, allergies, anaphylaxis, fibrosis, and autoimmune diseases. ³⁵ This complex process can be divided into four stages: initiation by triggers like infections or tissue damage; activation of sensors, including mast cells and macrophages; release of pro-inflammatory substances such as cytokines and chemokines; and the resultant effects on affected tissues. The nature of the inflammatory response varies depending on the pathogen involved; for example, bacterial infections primarily activate toll-like receptors (TLRs), whereas viral infections stimulate type I interferons (IFNs). ³⁶ Notably, chronic inflammatory conditions of unknown etiology are increasingly prevalent and often coexist with diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. ³⁷

Therapeutic strategies targeting later disease stages focus on mitigating excessive host responses, including cytokine overproduction, systemic inflammation, dysregulated platelet aggregation, and coagulopathy. Efforts also aim to modulate inflammatory markers and cytokine expression, underscoring the importance of distinguishing between pro- and anti-inflammatory responses to develop effective treatments.^38,39

Key inflammatory pathways involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis (Figure 4) include:

1. Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) Pathway: A pivotal transcription factor regulating genes involved in inflammation. SARS-CoV-2 activates NF-κB/Aquaporin1 (Aq1), promoting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Dysregulated NF-κB signaling can lead to cytokine storm and severe lung injury. ⁴⁰

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Figure 4.

Primary mechanisms of pathogenesis and inflammatory cascades in SARS-CoV-2 infection.

These interconnected pathways orchestrate the inflammatory response; whose dysregulation underlies many COVID-19 complications.

Three primary transcription factors play crucial roles in the inflammatory response pathway: NF-κB, JAK-STAT, and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α). ⁴⁹ While NF-κB predominantly regulates the acute phase of inflammation aimed at restoring homeostasis, its sustained activation, along with JAK-STAT and HIF-1α, can contribute to chronic inflammation and diseases such as long COVID-19. NF-κB promotes the expression of key inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, lymphotoxin, and IFN-γ. Notably, IL-1 and TNF-α engage in a positive feedback loop by stimulating NF-κB activation, amplifying the inflammatory response. ⁵⁰

HIF-1α is activated under hypoxic conditions, a common feature within inflamed tissues where immune cells experience reduced oxygen availability. This transcription factor induces genes involved in angiogenesis and erythropoiesis, thereby enhancing immune cell survival in hypoxic environments. ⁵¹ Cytokines such as IL-1β further support HIF-1α transcriptional activity, with NF-κB facilitating this process by binding to HIF-1α promoters under inflammatory stimuli. ⁵²

The STAT protein family mediates diverse roles depending on the inflammatory trigger. Specific cytokines activate distinct STAT proteins, which can either promote or suppress inflammation. For example, viral infections induce interferons that activate STAT1 and STAT2, enhancing antiviral defenses and modulating inflammation. Conversely, STAT6 influences T helper cell differentiation, which can either exacerbate allergic inflammation or mitigate autoimmunity depending on the subset involved.^53–55

In COVID-19, rapid SARS-CoV-2 replication leads to excessive production of inflammatory proteins, causing host tissue injury. ⁵⁶ Concurrently, aberrant activation of enzymes such as high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), NADPH oxidase (NOX), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) contributes to inflammation-associated pathologies, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.^57,58 The antioxidant defense system modulates oxidative stress, which, when overwhelmed, results in elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and isoprostanes. ⁵⁹ These oxidative molecules activate transcription factors such as NF-κB, AP-1, p53, and STAT, triggering gene expression of growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, and chemokines. Additionally, activated mast cells release a variety of inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, chemokines, histamine, proteases, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and serglycin proteoglycans, further amplifying the inflammatory milieu (Table 1). ⁶⁰

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Table 1.

Key pathogenic mechanisms and inflammatory pathways in SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Mechanism/pathway	Description	Key mediators	Clinical consequences	References
Viral Entry via ACE2	SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein binds ACE2 receptor; entry facilitated by TMPRSS2 or cathepsins	ACE2, Spike protein, TMPRSS2	Viral infection of host cells, initiating replication	5,45
NF-κB Activation	Transcription factor regulating inflammatory gene expression; activated by viral infection	IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ	Cytokine storm, lung inflammation, tissue damage	15,40
JAK-STAT Signaling	Cytokine and growth factor signal transduction leading to immune response modulation	STAT1, STAT2, STAT6	Regulation of immune activation and inflammation	18,42,53
NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation	Danger signal sensor triggering production of IL-1β and IL-18	IL-1β, IL-18	Amplified inflammation, tissue injury	18,44
COX-2/Eicosanoid Pathway	Metabolism of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes	COX-2, prostaglandins, thromboxanes	Inflammation, vascular modulation	20,61–65
Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) Imbalance	ACE2 downregulation disrupts RAS, promoting inflammation and coagulation	ACE2, Angiotensin II	Vascular permeability, edema, and hypercoagulation	29,45

5. Induction of inflammation by arachidonic metabolites

Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids through the action of phospholipases A2 and undergoes a series of metabolic transformations. ⁶¹ The production of prostaglandins and eicosanoids is mediated by enzymes such as COX and lipoxygenases (LOX). COX exists in two isoforms: COX-1, constitutively expressed in most cells to maintain physiological functions, and COX-2, which is inducible by inflammatory stimuli, hormones, and growth factors, and serves as the main source of prostanoids during inflammation and proliferative diseases. ²⁰ Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and indomethacin non-selectively inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2, whereas COXIBs such as celecoxib and valdecoxib selectively target COX-2. ⁶² Studies have reported elevated expression of COX isoforms in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, with a notable overexpression of 15-LOX-1 in male patients with severe disease and female patients with non-severe infection. Moreover, 15-LOX-2 overexpression was significant only in males with severe COVID-19. ⁶³ While COX-1 contributes to tissue integrity, cell proliferation, and vasodilation, COX-2 is primarily involved in inflammatory responses triggered by cytokines and growth factors. ⁶⁴ Prostaglandins and cytokines synergistically activate NF-κB, inducing the expression of inflammation-related genes in immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils. ⁶⁵ Given the pivotal role of the eicosanoid and prostaglandin pathways in modulating inflammation and facilitating viral replication, a deeper understanding of their expression patterns and mechanisms during COVID-19 could inform the development of targeted therapies and preventive strategies, shedding light on the molecular basis of disease progression.

6. The cytokine storm and dysregulated immunity

The term “cytokine storm” itself is debated, with some studies arguing it may be an oversimplification of a more complex immunodynamic dysfunction. The overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines disrupts immune homeostasis, promoting infiltration of inflammatory cells into lung tissue and impairing immune function. Additionally, dysregulation of the RAS, caused by ACE2 downregulation, correlates with increased mortality in COVID-19. ²⁹ Both mechanisms converge to exacerbate hyperinflammation, leading to increased vascular permeability, edema, hypercoagulation, and multi-organ damage.^30,31

6.2. Th17 cells in COVID-19

Th17 cells, a subset of immune cells, play a dual role in immunity, acting as both protectors and contributors to pathology. They are implicated in chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases through the production of cytokines such as IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22, GM-CSF, IL-10, and IFN-γ. ⁸⁰ Among these, IL-17 is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine that drives widespread inflammation by inducing the release of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which promotes neutrophil production and mobilization. IL-17 also stimulates the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, contributing to systemic symptoms like fever. Additionally, IL-17 enhances chemokine production (KC, MIP-2α, IL-8, IP-10, MIP-3α), recruiting further immune cells to sites of infection, and activates matrix metalloproteinases, leading to tissue damage and remodeling. Both IL-17 and GM-CSF are involved in autoimmune and inflammatory pathologies. ⁸¹ IL-17 attracts neutrophils and monocytes to infected tissues and promotes cytokines such as G-CSF and IL-6 that sustain innate inflammation. Chemokines, including CXCL1, CXCL2, and CXCL10, also facilitate myeloid cell recruitment. While CD4+, CD8+, and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are primary IL-17 sources, neutrophils can produce IL-17 under certain conditions. ⁸² Emerging evidence suggests that Th17-mediated inflammation significantly contributes to COVID-19 pneumonia progression. The release of IL-17 and GM-CSF exacerbates neutrophil migration and suppresses regulatory T cell (Treg) responses. In contrast, Tregs express anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β, playing a critical role in controlling excessive immune activation. ⁸³ Severe COVID-19 is characterized by reduced Treg numbers and a decreased Treg/Th17 ratio, indicating impaired regulation of pro-inflammatory responses. This shift toward a Th17-dominant phenotype may drive excessive cytokine and chemokine release, amplifying inflammation and tissue injury (Figure 5).OPEN IN VIEWER

Figure 5.

The roles of macrophages and T cells in severe respiratory syndrome caused by COVID-19.

Elevated IL-17 and GM-CSF levels have been detected in blood, tears, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of COVID-19 patients. ⁸⁴ IL-17 is linked to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS), with higher IL-17 concentrations observed in blood and alveolar fluid of ARDS patients, particularly non-survivors. In COVID-19, IL-17 likely contributes to lung inflammation by recruiting neutrophils and monocytes and inducing cytokines such as G-CSF, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. ⁸⁵ Additionally, COVID-19 patients exhibit a fourfold increase in plasma IFN-γ, which activates macrophages to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicating a combined Th1/Th17 immune response (Table 2). ⁸⁶

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Table 2.

Roles of immune cells in COVID-19 pathogenesis.

Immune cell type	Function/role	Alterations in COVID-19	Clinical implications	References
Macrophages	Phagocytosis, cytokine production, and inflammation regulation	Hyperactivation, macrophage activation syndrome (MAS)	Exacerbated inflammation, tissue damage	87–91
Neutrophils (PMNs)	Release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), pathogen clearance	Increased NET formation, microthrombi, hemophagocytosis	Inflammation, thrombosis	92–94
Natural Killer (NK) Cells	Antiviral cytotoxicity, immunomodulation	Lymphopenia, functional exhaustion, altered receptor expression	Impaired viral clearance, prolonged inflammation	95–98
CD8+ T Cells	Cytotoxic elimination of infected cells	Hyperactivation, tissue infiltration, and potential tissue injury	Organ damage, disease progression	99–105
Th17 Cells	Production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, neutrophil recruitment	Increased IL-17 and GM-CSF production, Treg/Th17 imbalance	Pulmonary inflammation, tissue injury	80–86
Regulatory T Cells (Tregs)	Immune suppression, maintenance of immune homeostasis	Decreased numbers, impaired function	Loss of inflammation control, disease severity	66–79

7. Therapeutic perspectives

Understanding the complex pathways involved in the inflammatory response to SARS-CoV-2 infection is essential for developing targeted therapies aimed at mitigating the detrimental effects of excessive inflammation. This review underscores the pivotal role of the innate immune response, particularly the dysregulated activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, in driving COVID-19 pathogenesis. Severe disease manifestations are often associated with a cytokine storm, resulting in widespread tissue damage and multi-organ failure.

7.1. Current therapeutic strategies and critical appraisal

Current therapeutic strategies focus on multiple targets within the viral life cycle and host immune response (Table 3).

• Viral Entry and Replication Inhibition: This includes neutralizing antibodies (though many lost efficacy against variants) and small-molecule antivirals like remdesivir (which showed modest effects in severe disease) and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid), which is highly effective in reducing progression to severe disease in high-risk outpatients when given early.^7,8

• Immunomodulation:

o Corticosteroids: Dexamethasone remains a cornerstone for severe COVID-19 requiring oxygen, based on the RECOVERY trial which demonstrated reduced mortality. However, its use is not without controversy in certain patient subgroups, such as those without significant hypoxia, where the benefit is less clear.

o Cytokine Blockade: IL-6 inhibitors (e.g., tocilizumab) and JAK-STAT inhibitors (e.g., baricitinib) are recommended for severe, progressive disease. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) confirm their mortality benefit, particularly when combined with corticosteroids. Key limitations include the risk of secondary infections and the high cost of these biologics.^32–34

o Other Targets: The NLRP3 inflammasome and various kinase pathways are under investigation, but clinical evidence is less mature.

• Addressing the RAS Imbalance: Therapeutic modulation of the RAS remains a theoretical but largely unproven avenue in clinical practice.^29,45

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Table 3.

Major therapeutic targets and strategies in COVID-19.

Therapeutic target	Strategy	Examples of treatments	Intended effect	Level of evidence/limitations	Ref
Viral Entry Inhibition	Block Spike-ACE2 interaction, inhibit TMPRSS2	Neutralizing antibodies, camostat	Prevent viral entry into host cells	mAbs often variant-dependent. Camostat evidence limited.	7,8,45
Viral Replication Inhibition	Target viral proteases and polymerases	Remdesivir, Paxlovid	Reduce viral load and replication	RCTs show benefit for Paxlovid in outpatients; Remdesivir effect is modest.	7,8
Cytokine Modulation	Block pro-inflammatory cytokines and signaling	Tocilizumab (anti-IL-6), baricitinib (JAK inhibitor)	Mitigate cytokine storm and hyperinflammation	Strong RCT evidence for mortality reduction in severe disease. Risk of secondary infections.	18,32–34
COX-2/Eicosanoid Pathway	Inhibit COX-2 enzyme	Celecoxib	Reduce inflammation and vascular effects	Preclinical rationale; limited clinical trial data in COVID-19.	20,63
RAS Modulation	Restore ACE2/angiotensin balance	Experimental RAS modulators	Decrease inflammation and vascular injury	Therapeutic potential not yet established in clinical trials.	29,45
Immune Cell Modulation	Enhance Treg function, modulate macrophage activation	Treg-based therapies, immunomodulators	Restore immune balance, reduce pathological inflammation	Mostly preclinical; significant translational challenges.	66–79

8. Limitations of the study

While this review synthesizes a broad body of literature, it is subject to certain limitations. The quality of evidence varies across the cited studies, from robust RCTs to smaller observational reports and preclinical models. Our critical analysis aimed to highlight these discrepancies, but the interpretation of conflicting data remains an ongoing challenge in the field. As a narrative review, the selection and interpretation of evidence are inherently influenced by the authors’ perspectives, despite our efforts to be systematic and objective.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, this narrative review has synthesized and critically appraised the complex immune and inflammatory pathways that define COVID-19 pathogenesis. We have underscored the dual role of the immune system, which provides essential defense but can also drive pathology through dysregulated responses like the cytokine storm. The review has highlighted key players, from innate immune cells to T cell subsets, and evaluated the evidence supporting various therapeutic targets. The continuous evolution of SARS-CoV-2 presents a persistent challenge, necessitating adaptive and multifaceted treatment strategies. Our analysis confirms that effective management of severe COVID-19 relies on a nuanced understanding of these host-virus interactions. Future efforts must focus on personalized medicine approaches and the development of broad-spectrum countermeasures to mitigate the impact of this evolving disease, as outlined in the goals of this study.