Scientists Warn That Viral Persistence Is The Primary Contributing Factor To Long COVID
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team May 09, 2024 1 week, 4 days, 2 hours, 40 minutes ago
Long COVID News: The global outbreak of COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has brought to light not only the acute phase of the illness but also lingering health complications that persist long after the initial infection. Known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), or more colloquially as Long COVID, this condition has captured the attention of scientists worldwide due to its complex and diverse nature. In this
Long COVID News report based on a study review by researchers from University of Padova- Italy and University of Maryland-USA, we delve into the intricate details of Long COVID, exploring the contributing factors, potential mechanisms, and ongoing research in this field.
Graphical Abstract: Viral Persistence Is The Primary Contributing Factor To Long COVID
Thailand
Medical News has already warning about SARS-CoV-2 viral persistence since 2020.
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Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19, initially perceived as primarily a respiratory illness, has proven to have far-reaching effects beyond the lungs. Patients recovering from acute COVID-19 can experience a spectrum of symptoms collectively termed as Long COVID or PASC. These symptoms, ranging from fatigue, headaches, and attention disorders to more severe manifestations like neurological, cardiac, liver, and kidney issues, can persist for weeks to months after the acute phase of the infection. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines PASC as ongoing, relapsing, or new symptoms present 30 or more days after infection. This extended phase of illness significantly impacts the quality of life for affected individuals, necessitating a deeper understanding of its underlying mechanisms.
Factors Contributing to Long COVID
Several factors contribute to the development of Long COVID, including pre-existing health conditions like depression, anxiety, chronic kidney disease, and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, the severity of the acute phase of COVID-19 plays a role, with hospitalized patients more likely to experience PASC symptoms compared to those with mild or asymptomatic infections. Notably, certain demographics, such as women, children, and immunocompromised individuals, face heightened risks and challenges associated with Long COVID.
Viral Persistence in Long COVID
One of the primary contributing factors to Long COVID appears to be viral persistence. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 antigens and RNA can persist in various organs, including the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), for extended periods even after clearance from the upper respiratory system. This persistent presence of viral elements can stimulate prolonged immune activation, shaping local microbiota and potentially leading to systemic effects. Understanding the dynamics of viral persistence is crucial in unraveling the mysteries of Long COVID.
Evidence of Viral Persistence
Research has provided compelling evidence of SARS-CoV-2 persistence in the body post-infection. Studies have detected viral RNA and antigens in diverse anatomical sites, such as the GIT, kidneys, CNS, and even bone marrow, months after acute infection. Notably, the presence of viral components correlates with the occurrence of PASC symptoms, suggesting a direct link between viral persistence and ongoing health issues in recovered COVID-19 patients.
Immune System Implications
Persistent viral elements in Long COVID contribute to prolonged immune system activation. Studies have shown chronic activation of CD8+ T-cells, expansion of dendritic cells and monocytes, and altered B cell responses in PASC patients. This immune dysregulation, coupled with factors like complement system activation and persistent antibody evolution, contributes to the pathogenesis of Long COVID symptoms, particularly those affecting the central nervous system (CNS).
Role of Gut Microbiota
The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in Long COVID, with emerging evidence linking gut dysbiosis to persistent symptoms. Changes in microbiota composition, particularly reductions in beneficial bacteria and increases in opportunistic pathogens, are associated with PASC manifestations. The gut-brain axis (GBA) may mediate these effects, highlighting the intricate interplay between the gut microbiome, immune system, and CNS function in Long COVID pathology.
Challenges and Future Directions
While significant progress has been made in understanding Long COVID, many challenges and unanswered questions remain. These include the heterogeneity of PASC symptoms, sex-specific differences in susceptibility and immune responses, and the impact of Long COVID on pediatric populations. Addressing these challenges requires multidisciplinary research efforts, including longitudinal studies, biomarker identification, and targeted therapeutic interventions.
Conclusion
Long COVID represents a complex and multifaceted condition that extends beyond the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Viral persistence, immune dysregulation, gut microbiota alterations, and other factors contribute to the diverse array of PASC symptoms observed in affected individuals. Ongoing research aimed at unraveling the mechanisms of Long COVID and developing effective treatments is essential to mitigate the long-term impact of this pandemic on global health.
The study review was published in the peer reviewed journal: Pathogens.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/13/5/388
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