Sergejs Berdnikovs, PhD

People with type 2 diabetes, type 1 diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome are at a significantly higher risk for severe viral infections, including serious complications from COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).  Metabolic diseases are also linked to “long COVID,” vaccine breakthrough infections and higher likelihood of co-infection with other viruses, such as RSV. Surprisingly, infection with COVID-19 worsens diabetes and insulin resistance, and significantly increases the risk of developing new diabetes. Despite clear associations between these metabolic conditions and severe viral infection, the mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. Our research will explore how metabolic dysregulation in airway epithelial cells (which are the initial point of contact for respiratory viruses) affects the body's response to viral infections. The findings will significantly advance our understanding of risk factors for coronavirus infection and will improve preparedness for future pandemics.

Update: Although metabolic disorders are clearly linked to worse outcomes from viral infections, the exact reasons why are still not well understood. Our research has shown that the ACE2 enzyme and related signals help airway cells manage insulin sensitivity and glucose use. Cells from people with obesity or diabetes show higher levels of RSV and SARS-CoV-2 infection. In these cells, harmful signals from the proteins IGF-1/Shc1 are stronger, while protective metabolic and antiviral signals are weaker. We are continuing to study how these pathways interact in airway cells to better understand how metabolic health affects viral responses.