Immune-based therapeutic approaches in COVID-19.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), a member of the Coronaviridae family. On March 11, 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) has named the newly emerged rapidly-spreading epidemic as a pandemic. Besides the risk-reduction measures such as physical and social distancing and vaccination, a wide range of treatment modalities have been developed; aiming to fight the disease. The immune system is known as a double-edged sword in COVID-19 pathogenesis, with respect to its role in eliminating the pathogen and in inducing complications such as cytokine storm syndrome. Hence, immune-based therapeutic approaches have become an interesting field of COVID-19 research, including corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), interferon therapy, and more COVID-19-specific approaches such as anti-SARS-CoV-2-monoclonal antibodies. Herein, we did a comprehensive review on immune-based therapeutic approaches for COVID-19. Not applicable. [Display omitted] • Since the emergence of the virus, COVID-19 has caused morbidities and mortalities worldwide. • The immune system plays a dual role, eliminating pathogens and inducing poorly regulated responses. • Immune-based therapeutic approaches affect both roles and help to resolve disease complications. • These approaches are a promising candidate in controlling poorly regulated responses especially in severely ill patients. • Examples of such modalities include corticosteroids, IVIG, interferons, and monoclonal antibodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]