Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) stimulated and P2X7 receptor activated by COVID-19, as a potential therapeutic target and risk factor for epilepsy

Abstract

Based on available evidence, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a neuroinvasive virus. According to the centers for disease control and prevention (CDC), coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may cause epilepsy. In this line, COVID-19 can stimulate hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) and activate P2X7 receptor. Both HIF-1α and P2X7 receptors are linked to epileptogenesis and seizures. Therefore, in the current study, we suggested that COVID-19 may have a role in epileptogenesis and seizure through HIF-1α stimulation and P2X7 receptor activation. Consequently, pharmacological targeting of these factors could be a promising therapeutic approach for such patients.

Keywords: COVID-19; Epilepsy; Epileptogenesis; HIF‐1α; P2X7 receptor; SARS-CoV-2; Seizure.