SARS-CoV-2 does not replicate in HaCaT spontaneously immortalized human keratinocytes: implications for the pathogenesis of COVID-19-associated skin manifestations

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)-related cutaneous manifestations have been reported [1], however, the direct or indirect role of SARS-CoV-2 infection in their pathophysiology is still debated [2]. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is highly expressed in keratinocytes, suggesting percutaneous transmission as a potential route for SARS-CoV-2 infection [3]. Currently, the susceptibility of keratinocytes to SARS-CoV-2 has not been investigated. Thus, two HaCaT spontaneously .