The role of lipid rafts in the immune system and SARS-CoV-2 cell invasion

Abstract

Introduction. Glycosphingolipids are compounds composed of hydrophilic sugar structures and hydrophobic ceramides. These molecules form lipid rafts or microdomains in the cell membrane together with cholesterol, sphingomyelin, glycosylphosphatidylinositol and molecules, which determines their properties.Aim. To systematize data on the structure of lipid rafts, their involvement in the functioning of immunocompetent cells and the development of the immune response, and the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 viral invasion.Materials and methods. From these positions, literary sources for 1981-2023 are analyzed. Literature search was carried out in information systems: PubMed and Google Scholar.Results. There are separate works that reflect the role of lipid rafts as mediators of signal transduction in the development of innate and adaptive immune responses. Other studies describe their importance in pathogen-host interaction and avoidance of immune control. Recently, studies have appeared on the effect of lipid microdomains of the cell membrane on viral invasion, including that caused by SARS-CoV-2.Conclusion. This review makes a significant contribution to understanding the role of lipid rafts in the functioning of the immune system and viral invasion, which determines the prospects for further research and the possibility of their use as therapeutic targets in the development of immunomodulatory drugs.