Using The Cellular Handshake Against The Virus

Using the cellular handshake against the virus

In early November an interesting study was published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, describing the treatment of a severe COVID-19 patient with human recombinant soluble angiotensin-converting enzyme-2. By using the treatment, it was possible to see the disappearance of the virus swiftly from the patient's serum, nose, and lungs, as well as a reduction in the patients’ inflammatory markers. How was this achieved? And why is this so intriguing.

When we look at treating viruses, there are several strategies at work. You can prevent its spread by the use of social distancing or masks, you can use medications that prevent its replication (such as Tamiflu). Or you can stop the virus from entering the cells, the first step in viral replication.

SARS-CoV-2 appears to enter human cells through the ACE2 receptor. ACE2 is a protein in the cell membrane found across the human body, especially the lungs, heart, kidney and small intestine. It function is related to the Renin-Angiotensin System, a mechanism by which the kidneys control your blood pressure.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme converts angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. ACE 2 instead converts it to a protein that causes dilation of blood vessels. This likely protects these critical organs and ensure they receive sufficient blood to perform their tasks. ACE2 is being investigated as a possible target for blood pressure medications.

The study used a genetically modified soluble form of ACE2 that mimics the protein found on human cell membranes. By increasing its availability in the blood, the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds to this protein, resulting in its inactivation, rather than entering lung cells and causing lung injury. Lab studies have shown that it can reduce viral growth by as much as 1000 to 5000 times, and phase 1 studies show it to be safe to use in people.

The actual described case was in a 45-year-old woman, hospitalized with COVID, suffering from severe shortness of breath, cough and fatigue. She was first treated with hydroxychloroquine and anticoagulants, but this proved ineffective, and the virus was causing increasing damage to her lungs. Nine days after her symptoms started, she received the ACE2 treatment for a week, with no side effects. This resulted in an increase in ACE2 activity (seen from her blood results), but also a marked decrease in multiple inflammatory markers associated with COVID-19, as well as a sharp decrease in COVID 19 numbers. Indeed, the viral load dropped from 32,000 per mL to just 270 per mL two days after treatment started. She was also able to produce antibodies against the virus, so this did not impair her from getting immunity.

It is certainly a very interesting case, though questions remain on how feasible it would be (as well as how expensive) to manufacture large quantities of this protein receptor for treatment use, as well as how it fairs in clinical trials.

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Mental Health Issues in Indian Elderly: A Growing Concern Often Overlooked

India’s senior population is growing faster than ever before. By 2050, one in five Indians will be above 60 years of age - a remarkable demographic shift. But behind this silver lining lies a silent crisis: mental health among India’s elderly.

The Hidden Struggle Behind Aging

Old age brings wisdom, but also biological and emotional challenges. Retirement, loss of loved ones, financial dependency, or health decline can trigger mental distress. Yet, these issues often go unnoticed because families mistake them for “normal signs of aging.”

According to the National Mental Health Survey by NIMHANS, nearly 20% of India’s elderly experience mental health issues, especially depression and anxiety. In rural areas, the situation is worse due to lack of awareness and healthcare access.

Common Mental Health Problems in Indian Seniors

Depression - Often triggered by loneliness, bereavement, or chronic illnesses. Signs include low mood, hopelessness, loss of interest, or changes in appetite and sleep.
Dementia - A progressive decline in memory and cognition, often misinterpreted as forgetfulness. India has over 5 million dementia patients, projected to double by 2050.
Anxiety & Sleep Disorders - Worries about health, finances, or safety cause insomnia, irritability, or constant tension.
Substance Use - Some elderly turn to alcohol or sedatives to cope, worsening mental health.
Psychosomatic Disorders - Emotional pain often manifests physically - headaches, fatigue, or chronic pain without clear medical cause.

Cultural & Social Roots of the Crisis

India’s traditional joint family system once offered emotional security. But with urbanization and migration, many elders now live alone or in old-age homes. The HelpAge India (2024) survey found that 47% of elderly Indians feel neglected by their families, and 36% experience loneliness regularly.

Moreover, stigma remains strong - elders hesitate to discuss “mental illness” for fear of being labeled weak or burdensome.

Health System Challenges

Despite national programs like NPHCE, access to geriatric psychiatry or counseling is still limited. Less than 10% of primary healthcare centers have a trained mental health professional.

However, initiatives like Tele-MANAS (2023) - India’s national mental health helpline (14416) - are bridging the gap by providing free counseling and referral support through phone and telemedicine.

Steps Toward Better Elderly Mental Health

Regular Screening: Routine depression and cognitive checks during health visits.
Community Programs: Local NGOs, senior clubs, and faith groups can provide social support.
Family Awareness: Encourage open dialogue, empathy, and daily engagement.
Physical Activity: Even gentle yoga or morning walks improve mood and sleep.
Digital Inclusion: Teach seniors to use smartphones for connecting with family or online therapy platforms.

The Role of Platforms Like SecondMedic

SecondMedic integrates mental wellness and teleconsultation for senior citizens - offering easy video counseling, medication delivery, and home diagnostics. Elderly patients can book sessions without traveling long distances or waiting in clinics, ensuring comfort and privacy.

Conclusion

Mental health in India’s elderly isn’t just a medical issue - it’s a social one. Aging should bring peace, not isolation. Recognizing emotional distress, breaking stigma, and encouraging conversation can transform how we care for our elders.

A healthy heart and body mean little without a healthy mind. Let’s make sure our elders live with dignity, purpose, and connection.

Help your loved ones find care from the comfort of home - Book an online mental wellness consultation on SecondMedic today ? https://www.secondmedic.com

Real Data, Surveys & Links

National Mental Health Survey (NIMHANS, 2023): 15–20% elderly with mental disorders.
nimhans.ac.in
HelpAge India Report 2024: 47% of elders feel neglected by families.
helpageindia.org
National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE): Govt. initiative for senior health.
nhp.gov.in
Tele-MANAS Helpline (MoHFW, 2023): 14416 - free national mental health line.
mohfw.gov.in

Dementia India Report (AIIMS & ARDSI, 2024): 5.3 million affected, projected to double by 2050.
ardsi.org

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