Mechanism and potential treatments for gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients with COVID-19

Figure 3 Main mechanisms involved in coronavirus disease 2019-induced gastrointestinal syndromes. Gut infection of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) results in cytokine storm, increased intestinal permeability and alteration of the intestinal flora, and forming a vicious circle, extending the recovery time. Moreover, COVID-19 binding to gastrointestinal angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 also leads to ion imbalance and activation of renin-angiotensin system. Abnormal enteric neurotransmitters may further lead to gut-brain axis communication disorders. RAS: Renin-angiotensin system.