Estrogen is protective against endothelial glycocalyx shedding induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SARS-COV-2 infection promotes endothelial dysfunction in patients with COVID-19 and male patients are at greater risk of developing serious complications than females. The endothelial glycocalyx is a key regulator of vascular homeostasis. The plasma from hospitalized patients with COVID-19, but not from healthy individuals, promotes glycocalyx degradation. Sex hormones have a considerable effect on the regulation of the immune response and endothelial function.