Adenosine A2A Receptor (A2AR) agonists improve survival in K28-hACE2 mice following SARS CoV-2 infection

Abstract

Effective and available therapies for the treatment of COVID-19 disease are limited. Apadenoson is a highly potent selective anti-inflammatory adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) agonist and potential treatment option for COVID-19 patients. Apadenoson, when administered after infection with SARS CoV-2, was found to decrease weight loss, improve clinical symptoms, reduce levels of a several proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in bronchial lavage (BAL) fluid, and promote increased survival in K18hACE2 transgenic mice. Of note, administering apadenoson after, but not prior to Covid-19 infection, caused a rapid decrease in lung viral burden. The work presented provides the foundation for further examination of these drugs as a therapy option for COVID-19. SummaryApadenoson therapy improves COVID-19 outcome