Exploring SARS-CoV-2 Interactions in Aging and Comorbid Populations

Aging and pre-existing comorbid conditions significantly enhance the severity and prolong the course of COVID-19. These conditions include but are not limited to hypertension, cancer, chronic infections, obesity, diabetes, and heart, lung, or kidney diseases. Such vulnerabilities are notably prevalent among the elderly, who represent a large fraction of severely affected patients, particularly those requiring hospitalization. Current research highlights the critical nature of SARS-CoV-2 infections in this population and underscores the need for detailed studies focused on older adults.

This Research Topic aims to examine the complexities of SARS-CoV-2 infections among aged and comorbid patients, seeking to uncover targeted strategies for enhancing control over COVID-19's impact both in its early stages and as longer-term consequences develop. Given the urgent necessity to manage and mitigate disease progression in this vulnerable group, investigating specific interaction mechanisms between the virus and host in the context of pre-existing health conditions will be crucial.

To gather further insights into the interplay of aging and comorbid conditions with COVID-19, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Mechanisms by which aging and comorbidities influence COVID-19 severity and progression
• Comparative studies on SARS-CoV-2 outcomes in aged populations with different comorbid conditions
• Impacts of specific comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, or obesity on COVID-19 in older adults
• Innovative preclinical models to study COVID-19 in elderly or comorbid populations
• Interventional strategies and treatments tailored for elderly COVID-19 patients

Scientists worldwide are encouraged to contribute their research and perspectives, particularly those that utilize preclinical models to explore how aging and health conditions exacerbate COVID-19 outcomes.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: SARS-COV2, COVID-19, frailty, elderly, vaccines, aging

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.