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Li B, Bai J, Xiong Y, Guo D, Fu B, Deng G, Wu H. Understanding the mechanisms and treatments of long COVID to address future public health risks. Life Sci 2024; 353:122938. [PMID: 39084516 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19), triggered by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), has seen numerous individuals undergo and recover from it, drawing extensive attention to their health conditions. Extensive studies indicate that even after surpassing the acute phase of infection, patients continue to experience persistent symptoms such as fatigue, pain, depression, weakening, and anosmia. COVID-19 appears not to have concluded but rather to persist long-term in certain individuals, termed as "long COVID." This represents a heterogeneous ailment involving multiple organ systems, with a perceived complex and still elusive pathogenesis. Among patients with long COVID, observations reveal immune dysregulation, coagulation impairments, and microbial dysbiosis, considered potential mechanisms explaining sustained adverse outcomes post COVID-19. Based on the multifactorial nature, varied symptoms, and heterogeneity of long COVID, we have summarized several categories of current therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, the symptoms of long COVID resemble those of other viral illnesses, suggesting that existing knowledge may offer novel insights into long-term COVID implications. Here, we provide an overview of existing literature associated with long COVID and summarize potential mechanisms, treatment modalities, and other analogous conditions. Lastly, we underscore the inadequacies in long COVID treatment approaches and emphasize the significance of conducting further research and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohao Li
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Junlu Bai
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Yan Xiong
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Dong Guo
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Beibei Fu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Guohong Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Haibo Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
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Schreiber CS, Wiesweg I, Stanelle-Bertram S, Beck S, Kouassi NM, Schaumburg B, Gabriel G, Richter F, Käufer C. Sex-specific biphasic alpha-synuclein response and alterations of interneurons in a COVID-19 hamster model. EBioMedicine 2024; 105:105191. [PMID: 38865747 PMCID: PMC11293593 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) frequently leads to neurological complications after recovery from acute infection, with higher prevalence in women. However, mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 disrupts brain function remain unclear and treatment strategies are lacking. We previously demonstrated neuroinflammation in the olfactory bulb of intranasally infected hamsters, followed by alpha-synuclein and tau accumulation in cortex, thus mirroring pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease. METHODS To uncover the sex-specific spatiotemporal profiles of neuroinflammation and neuronal dysfunction following intranasal SARS-CoV-2 infection, we quantified microglia cell density, alpha-synuclein immunoreactivity and inhibitory interneurons in cortical regions, limbic system and basal ganglia at acute and late post-recovery time points. FINDINGS Unexpectedly, microglia cell density and alpha-synuclein immunoreactivity decreased at 6 days post-infection, then rebounded to overt accumulation at 21 days post-infection. This biphasic response was most pronounced in amygdala and striatum, regions affected early in Parkinson's disease. Several brain regions showed altered densities of parvalbumin and calretinin interneurons which are involved in cognition and motor control. Of note, females appeared more affected. INTERPRETATION Our results demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 profoundly disrupts brain homeostasis without neuroinvasion, via neuroinflammatory and protein regulation mechanisms that persist beyond viral clearance. The regional patterns and sex differences are in line with neurological deficits observed after SARS-CoV-2 infection. FUNDING Federal Ministry of Health, Germany (BMG; ZMV I 1-2520COR501 to G.G.), Federal Ministry of Education and Research, Germany (BMBF; 03COV06B to G.G.), Ministry of Science and Culture of Lower Saxony in Germany (14-76403-184, to G.G. and F.R.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Sophie Schreiber
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany
| | - Ivo Wiesweg
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Beck
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nancy Mounogou Kouassi
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Berfin Schaumburg
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gülsah Gabriel
- Department for Viral Zoonoses-One Health, Leibniz Institute of Virology, Hamburg, Germany; Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Franziska Richter
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany.
| | - Christopher Käufer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience Hannover (ZSN), Germany.
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3
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Iba T, Connors JM, Levy JH. What Role Does Microthrombosis Play in Long COVID? Semin Thromb Hemost 2024; 50:527-536. [PMID: 37748518 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1774795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Soon after the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), unexplained sustained fatigue, cognitive disturbance, and muscle ache/weakness were reported in patients who had recovered from acute COVID-19 infection. This abnormal condition has been recognized as "long COVID (postacute sequelae of COVID-19 [PASC])" with a prevalence estimated to be from 10 to 20% of convalescent patients. Although the pathophysiology of PASC has been studied, the exact mechanism remains obscure. Microclots in circulation can represent one of the possible causes of PASC. Although hypercoagulability and thrombosis are critical mechanisms of acute COVID-19, recent studies have reported that thromboinflammation continues in some patients, even after the virus has cleared. Viral spike proteins and RNA can be detected months after patients have recovered, findings that may be responsible for persistent thromboinflammation and the development of microclots. Despite this theory, long-term results of anticoagulation, antiplatelet therapy, and vascular endothelial protection are inconsistent, and could not always show beneficial treatment effects. In summary, PASC reflects a heterogeneous condition, and microclots cannot explain all the presenting symptoms. After clarification of the pathomechanisms of each symptom, a symptom- or biomarker-based stratified approach should be considered for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Iba
- Department of Emergency and Disaster Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jean M Connors
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jerrold H Levy
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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4
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Zhang Y, Fu Z, Zhang H, Lin K, Song J, Guo J, Zhang Q, Yuan G, Wang H, Fan M, Zhao Y, Sun R, Guo T, Jiang N, Qiu C, Zhang W, Ai J. Proteomic and Cellular Characterization of Omicron Breakthrough Infections and a Third Homologous or Heterologous Boosting Vaccination in a Longitudinal Cohort. Mol Cell Proteomics 2024; 23:100769. [PMID: 38641227 PMCID: PMC11154224 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2024.100769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The understanding of dynamic plasma proteome features in hybrid immunity and breakthrough infection is limited. A deeper understanding of the immune differences between heterologous and homologous immunization could assist in the future establishment of vaccination strategies. In this study, 40 participants who received a third dose of either a homologous BBIBP-CorV or a heterologous ZF2001 protein subunit vaccine following two doses of inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines and 12 patients with BA2.2 breakthrough infections were enrolled. Serum samples were collected at days 0, 28, and 180 following the boosting vaccination and breakthrough and then analyzed using neutralizing antibody tests and mass spectrometer-based proteomics. Mass cytometry of peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples was also performed in this cohort. The chemokine signaling pathway and humoral response markers (IgG2 and IgG3) associated with infection were found to be upregulated in breakthrough infections compared to vaccination-induced immunity. Elevated expression of IGKV, IGHV, IL-17 signaling, and the phagocytosis pathway, along with lower expression of FGL2, were correlated with higher antibody levels in the boosting vaccination groups. The MAPK signaling pathway and Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis were more enriched in the heterologous immunization groups than in the homologous immunization groups. Breakthrough infections can trigger more intensive inflammatory chemokine responses than vaccination. T-cell and innate immune activation have been shown to be closely related to enhanced antibody levels after vaccination and therefore might be potential targets for vaccine adjuvant design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhangfan Fu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haocheng Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Lin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieyu Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingxin Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiran Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanmin Yuan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyu Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingxiang Fan
- Tongji Medical School, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanhan Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Sun
- iMarker lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tiannan Guo
- iMarker lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Qiu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenhong Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai huashen institute of microbes and infections, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingwen Ai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Daisley H, Acco O, Daisley M, George D, Paul L, James E, Rampersad A, Narinesingh F, Humphrey O, Daisley J, Nathan M. Thrombosis of the vasa vasorum of the large and medium size pulmonary artery and vein leads to pulmonary thromboembolism in COVID-19. Autops Case Rep 2024; 14:e2024491. [PMID: 38803482 PMCID: PMC11129857 DOI: 10.4322/acr.2024.491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The vasa vasorum of the large pulmonary vessels is involved in the pathology of COVID-19. This specialized microvasculature plays a major role in the biology and pathology of the pulmonary vessel walls. We have evidence that thrombosis of the vasa vasorum of the large and medium-sized pulmonary vessels during severe COVID-19 causes ischemia and subsequent death of the pulmonary vasculature endothelium. Subsequent release of thrombi from the vasa interna into the pulmonary circulation and pulmonary embolism generated at the ischemic pulmonary vascular endothelium site, are the central pathophysiological mechanisms in COVID-19 responsible for pulmonary thromboembolism. The thrombosis of the vasa vasorum of the large and medium-sized pulmonary vessels is an internal event leading to pulmonary thromboembolism in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oneka Acco
- The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | | | - Dennecia George
- Scarborough General Hospital, Signal Hill, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Lilly Paul
- The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica
| | - Errol James
- Beacon Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Woodbrook, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | | | | | | | - Johann Daisley
- Scarborough General Hospital, Signal Hill, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Melissa Nathan
- The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
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6
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Zifko U, Guendling K, Seet R, Kasper S. Management of cognitive impairment associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome: recommendations for primary care. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1338235. [PMID: 38711990 PMCID: PMC11072190 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1338235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Although post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) with cognitive impairment is increasingly encountered in primary care, evidence-based recommendations for its appropriate management are lacking. Methods: A systematic literature search evaluating the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive impairment associated with PCS was conducted. Practical recommendations for the management of PCS-associated cognitive impairment in primary care are summarized, based on an evaluation of pharmacological plausibility and clinical applications. Results: Currently, the pathology of cognitive impairment associated with PCS remains unclear with no high-quality data to support targeted interventions. Existing treatment approaches are directed towards symptom relief where counseling on the chronicity of the disease and regular reassessments at 4- to 8-week intervals is considered reasonable. Patients should be informed and encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle that centers around balanced nutrition and appropriate physical activities. They may also benefit from the intake of vitamins, micronutrients, and probiotics. The administration of Ginkgo biloba extract could offer a safe and potentially beneficial treatment option. Other non-pharmacological measures include physiotherapy, digitally supported cognitive training, and, if indicated, ergotherapy or speech therapy. In most patients, symptoms improve within 8 weeks. If serious, ambiguous, or when new symptoms occur, specialized diagnostic measures such as comprehensive neurocognitive testing or neuroimaging should be initiated. Very few patients would require inpatient rehabilitation. Conclusion: PCS with cognitive impairment is a debilitating condition that could affect daily functioning and reduce work productivity. Management in primary care should adopt a multidisciplinary approach, centering around physical, cognitive, and pharmacological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udo Zifko
- Rudolfinerhaus private clinic GmbH, Rudolfinerhaus, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Raymond Seet
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Siegfried Kasper
- Center for Brain Research, Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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7
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Yang J, Zhang S, Wu Q, Chen P, Dai Y, Long J, Wu Y, Lin Y. T cell-mediated skin-brain axis: Bridging the gap between psoriasis and psychiatric comorbidities. J Autoimmun 2024; 144:103176. [PMID: 38364575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2024.103176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, is often accompanied by psychiatric comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and other mental disorders. Psychological disorders may also play a role in the development and progression of psoriasis. The intricate interplay between the skin diseases and the psychiatric comorbidities is mediated by the 'skin-brain axis'. Understanding the mechanisms underlying psoriasis and psychiatric comorbidities can help improve the efficacy of treatment by breaking the vicious cycle of diseases. T cells and related cytokines play a key role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and psychiatric diseases, and are crucial components of the 'skin-brain axis'. Apart from damaging the blood-brain barrier (BBB) directly, T cells and secreted cytokines could interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) to exacerbate skin diseases or mental disorders. However, few reviews have systematically summarized the roles and mechanisms of T cells in the interaction between psoriasis and psychiatric comorbidities. In this review, we discussed several key T cells and their roles in the 'skin-brain axis', with a focus on the mechanisms underlying the interplay between psoriasis and mental commodities, to provide data that might help develop effective strategies for the treatment of both psoriasis and psychiatric comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juexi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Song Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Qixuan Wu
- Mental Health Services, Blacktown Hospital, Blacktow, NSW, 2148, Australia
| | - Pu Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yan Dai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Junhao Long
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Yun Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China; Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, China.
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Mohme M, Schultheiß C, Piffko A, Fitzek A, Paschold L, Thiele B, Püschel K, Glatzel M, Westphal M, Lamszus K, Matschke J, Binder M. SARS-CoV-2-associated T-cell infiltration in the central nervous system. Clin Transl Immunology 2024; 13:e1487. [PMID: 38304555 PMCID: PMC10831126 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection mainly presents with respiratory illness, neurologic symptoms and sequelae are increasingly recognised in the long-term treatment of COVID-19 patients. The pathophysiology and the neuropathogenesis behind neurologic complications of COVID-19 remain poorly understood, but mounting evidence points to endothelial dysfunction either directly caused by viral infection or indirectly by inflammatory cytokines, followed by a local immune response that may include virus-specific T cells. However, the type and role of central nervous system-infiltrating T cells in COVID-19 are complex and not fully understood. Methods We analysed distinct anatomical brain regions of patients who had deceased as a result of COVID-19-associated pneumonia or complications thereof and performed T cell receptor Vβ repertoire sequencing. Clonotypes were analysed for SARS-CoV-2 association using public TCR repertoire data. Results Our descriptive study demonstrates that SARS-CoV-2-associated T cells are found in almost all brain areas of patients with fatal COVID-19 courses. The olfactory bulb, medulla and cerebellum were brain regions showing the most SARS-CoV-2 specific sequence patterns. Neuropathological workup demonstrated primary CD8+ T-cell infiltration with a perivascular infiltration pattern. Conclusion Future research is needed to better define the relationship between T-cell infiltration and neurological symptoms and its long-term impact on patients' cognitive and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malte Mohme
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Christoph Schultheiß
- Medical OncologyUniversity Hospital BaselBaselSwitzerland
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno‐Oncology, Department of BiomedicineUniversity of Basel and University Hospital of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Andras Piffko
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Antonia Fitzek
- Department of Legal MedicineUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Lisa Paschold
- Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/HematologyMartin‐Luther‐University Halle‐WittenbergHalle (Saale)Germany
| | - Benjamin Thiele
- Medical OncologyUniversity Hospital BaselBaselSwitzerland
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno‐Oncology, Department of BiomedicineUniversity of Basel and University Hospital of BaselBaselSwitzerland
- Hematology and OncologyUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Klaus Püschel
- Department of Legal MedicineUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of NeuropathologyUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Manfred Westphal
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Katrin Lamszus
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Jakob Matschke
- Institute of NeuropathologyUniversity Medical Centre Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Mascha Binder
- Medical OncologyUniversity Hospital BaselBaselSwitzerland
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno‐Oncology, Department of BiomedicineUniversity of Basel and University Hospital of BaselBaselSwitzerland
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9
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Tang SW, Helmeste DM, Leonard BE. COVID-19 as a polymorphic inflammatory spectrum of diseases: a review with focus on the brain. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2023; 35:248-269. [PMID: 36861428 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2023.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
There appear to be huge variations and aberrations in the reported data in COVID-19 2 years now into the pandemic. Conflicting data exist at almost every level and also in the reported epidemiological statistics across different regions. It is becoming clear that COVID-19 is a polymorphic inflammatory spectrum of diseases, and there is a wide range of inflammation-related pathology and symptoms in those infected with the virus. The host's inflammatory response to COVID-19 appears to be determined by genetics, age, immune status, health status and stage of disease. The interplay of these factors may decide the magnitude, duration, types of pathology, symptoms and prognosis in the spectrum of COVID-19 disorders, and whether neuropsychiatric disorders continue to be significant. Early and successful management of inflammation reduces morbidity and mortality in all stages of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siu Wa Tang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute of Brain Medicine, Hong Kong, China
| | - Daiga Maret Helmeste
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute of Brain Medicine, Hong Kong, China
| | - Brian E Leonard
- Institute of Brain Medicine, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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10
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Iba T, Levy JH. A commentary on "Thromboinflammation in long COVID - the elusive key to post-infection sequelae?". J Thromb Haemost 2023; 21:2061-2063. [PMID: 37468178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2023.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Iba
- Department of Emergency and Disaster Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Jerrold H Levy
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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11
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Hansen N. Psychiatric Symptoms in Acute and Persisting Forms of COVID-19 Associated with Neural Autoantibodies. Antibodies (Basel) 2023; 12:49. [PMID: 37606433 PMCID: PMC10443296 DOI: 10.3390/antib12030049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: In this narrative review, we focus on neural autoantibodies in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 infection and persisting symptoms of post-COVID-19 syndrome with a psychiatric presentation. (2) Methods: Our methods include using the PubMed database to search for appropriate articles. (3) Results: We first describe the phenomenon of the psychiatric manifestation of COVID-19 in acute and persistent forms, associated with neural autoantibodies, often attributable to encephalopathy or encephalitis. We discuss the spectrum of neural autoantibodies in neuropsychiatric patients affected by COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 syndrome. Evidence from our research suggests that it is highly likely that neural autoantibody production is facilitated by SARS-CoV-2 infection, and that more neuropsychiatric patients than control subjects will present neural autoantibodies. (4) Conclusions: These observations support the hypothesis that acute and persisting forms of COVID-19 promote autoimmune diseases. Our patients therefore require comprehensive evaluation to avoid overlooking such autoantibody-associated psychiatric disorders associated with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Hansen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Von-Siebold-Str. 5, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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Alarfaj AA, Aldrweesh AK, Aldoughan AF, Alarfaj SM, Alabdulqader FK, Alyahya KA. Olfactory Dysfunction following COVID-19 and the Potential Benefits of Olfactory Training. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4761. [PMID: 37510876 PMCID: PMC10381506 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is associated with a common symptom of olfactory dysfunction, which may persist even after the infection is resolved. Olfactory training (OT) has emerged as the most effective intervention for post-viral olfactory dysfunction. OT involves daily exposure of the olfactory system to various odors. The current study aims to explore olfactory dysfunction following COVID-19 and the potential benefits of olfactory training. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study conducted among adults aged 18-60 living in Alahssa, Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire containing an informed consent form and a survey to collect demographic data, vaccination status, level of loss of smell and taste, and the level of awareness about olfactory training (OT) was distributed among all participants who agreed to participate in this study. RESULTS The study included 524 participants and presented their baseline characteristics, including age, gender, COVID-19 infection status, and complaints. Most patients were female (66.0%), and 46.2% had previously been infected with COVID-19. About 54.8% of participants reported chemosensory dysfunction, while 286 had olfactory dysfunction. Of those, 29.8% had anosmia, 16.8% had hyposmia, and 8.0% had parosmia. Results suggest that being fully or partially vaccinated may offer some protection against olfactory dysfunction compared to being unvaccinated. Adherence to olfactory training was associated with improvement in the sense of smell. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the importance of awareness and adherence to olfactory training, which may improve the sense of smell in individuals with chemosensory dysfunction. The findings of this study can inform public health policies and interventions aimed at reducing the burden of olfactory dysfunction associated with COVID-19 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah A Alarfaj
- Otolaryngology Unit, Department of Surgery, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | | | - Khalid A Alyahya
- Otolaryngology Unit, Department of Surgery, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
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13
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Kzhyshkowska J, Venketaraman V, Escobedo G. Editorial: Community series in immunometabolic mechanisms underlying the severity of COVID-19, volume II. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1221642. [PMID: 37325637 PMCID: PMC10267451 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1221642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Kzhyshkowska
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Immunology, Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- German Red Cross Blood Service Baden-Württemberg - Hessen, Mannheim, Germany
- National Research Tomsk State University, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Vishwanath Venketaraman
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Galileo Escobedo
- Laboratory of Immunometabolism, Research Division, General Hospital of Mexico “Dr. Eduardo Liceaga”, Mexico City, Mexico
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14
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Vojdani A, Vojdani E, Saidara E, Maes M. Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Infection, EBV, HHV-6 and Other Factors May Contribute to Inflammation and Autoimmunity in Long COVID. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020400. [PMID: 36851614 PMCID: PMC9967513 DOI: 10.3390/v15020400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel syndrome called long-haul COVID or long COVID is increasingly recognized in a significant percentage of individuals within a few months after infection with SARS-CoV-2. This disorder is characterized by a wide range of persisting, returning or even new but related symptoms that involve different tissues and organs, including respiratory, cardiac, vascular, gastrointestinal, musculo-skeletal, neurological, endocrine and systemic. Some overlapping symptomatologies exist between long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Very much like with long ME/CFS, infections with herpes family viruses, immune dysregulation, and the persistence of inflammation have been reported as the most common pattern for the development of long COVID. This review describes several factors and determinants of long COVID that have been proposed, elaborating mainly on viral persistence, reactivation of latent viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus and human herpesvirus 6 which are also associated with the pathology of ME/CFS, viral superantigen activation of the immune system, disturbance in the gut microbiome, and multiple tissue damage and autoimmunity. Based on these factors, we propose diagnostic strategies such as the measurement of IgG and IgM antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, EBV, HHV-6, viral superantigens, gut microbiota, and biomarkers of autoimmunity to better understand and manage this multi-factorial disorder that continues to affect millions of people in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristo Vojdani
- Immunosciences Lab, Inc., Los Angeles, CA 90035, USA
- Cyrex Laboratories, LLC, Phoenix, AZ 85034, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-310-657-1077
| | | | - Evan Saidara
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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