EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF ACE2 RECEPTOR INTERACTIONS ON RESPIRATORY COMPLICATIONS IN ATHLETES WITH COVID-19

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the correlation between angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor levels and COVID-19 in athletes, examining how this relationship influences the likelihood of developing respiratory failure. Methods: From March 2020 to March 2021, 152 athletes diagnosed with COVID-19 were admitted to the respiratory unit of our hospital. A control group of 100 healthy athletes undergoing routine physical exams during the same period was also studied. We analyzed the correlation between ACE2 receptor levels and the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Participants were divided based on the occurrence of respiratory failure into a control group (n=117) without respiratory complications and an observation group (n=35) with respiratory failure. Clinical parameters at admission—including complete blood counts, liver and kidney function tests, inflammatory markers, D-dimer, brain natriuretic peptide, and troponin—were compared. ACE2 levels were quantified, and their correlation with respiratory failure risk was assessed using logistic regression and Pearson correlation analysis. Results: ACE2 expression levels were significantly lower in COVID-19 infected athletes compared to healthy controls (P<0.05). There was a positive correlation between ACE2 expression and the prevalence of COVID-19 (rs=0.436, P=0.006). Statistical analysis indicated that factors such as age ≥60 years, smoking, elevated ACE2 levels, increased IL-1β, and D-dimer were more prevalent in the observation group and significantly associated with the occurrence of respiratory failure. Conclusion: ACE2 receptor levels are closely linked to the development and progression of COVID-19 among athletes, significantly impacting their respiratory health. The findings suggest that monitoring ACE2 levels could be crucial in predicting and managing respiratory complications in athletes with COVID-19, offering insights for targeted interventions to enhance recovery and mitigate the impact of the disease on athletic performance. Understanding these dynamics is vital for sports health professionals in developing strategies to support athletes during and post-COVID-19 infection.