Endotheliitis, endothelin, and endothelin receptor blockers in COVID-19.

ABSTRACT

We summarize the role of endothelin as a potent vasoconstrictor, pro-inflammatory, pro-oxidative agent in the pathophysiologic effects and end-organ dysfunction of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Endotheliitis is an under-recognized pathophysiologic process that causes various types of dysfunction in end organs, including heart, lung, kidney, and brain. Endothelin receptor blockers, such as bosentan and sitaxentan, can pave a path ahead in the realm of COVID-19 therapies. These agents have a potential role against COVID-19 and should be studied in research trials to determine their efficacy in treatment of this severe disease.