Role of lipid-soluble vitamins in MERS-related infections

Abstract

In the last few decades, mankind has faced global challenges with the arrival of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)- and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)-like life-threatening and deadly diseases. These viral diseases had put the burden on the human immunity and other linked systems. So, it was required to take the supplement which contains vitamins and can boost up the immunity level of humans. Vitamins include a large group of chemical compounds and can be classified into fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins. This chapter is primarily focused on the lipid-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin has a potential role to play in cell and tissue growth, cell differentiation, tissue differentiation, haematopoiesis, and immune system of the body. Vitamin D reduces oxidative stress, viral infection, and inflammation and enhances immunity. Antioxidant activity, translocation of the enzymes, interaction in membrane and protein, and improvement in the immune system all these characteristic functions are performed by vitamin E. The anti-inflammatory properties, coagulation of blood, and bone metabolism function are attributed to vitamin K. A viral infection increases the health loads on person and brings down the vitamin concentration from moderate to severe levels, depending on the severity of the infection. This chapter focusses on lipid-soluble vitamins to provide the general aspects of these vitamins with mechanisms and prophylaxis, their role in MERS, and related infectious and nutritional supplementation along with the challenges faced in ill health. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Aditya Arya and Rakesh Kaushik, individual chapters, the contributors.