Fig. 1

The role of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in blood coagulation in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Endocytosis of ACE2 followed by SARS-CoV-2 attachment contributes to increased Ang II levels. In addition, elevated levels of thrombin and inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1, and TGF-β, have been detected during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mentioned factors can activate the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in platelets, leading to its over-activation and clot formation. In addition, PI3K/AKT signaling activation by mentioned factors contributes to increased tissue factor expression in endothelial cells. ACE2: angiotensin converting enzyme 2; Ang II: angiotensin II; IL: interleukin; PI3K: phosphatidyl-inositol-3-kinases; TGF-β: transforming growth factor β; TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor α