COVID-19 Resource Page
Acute COVID-19, Long COVID, Post COVID-vaccination syndrome
Nervous System
In vitro & Animal studies
SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers the cellular senescence pathway in susceptible dopaminergic neurons derived from human pluripotent stem cells (increased risk of viral-induced parkinsonism?)
This study demonstrated selective in vitro vulnerability of purified DA neurons derived from human pluripotent stem cells to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the associated inflammatory and cellular senescence response.
Modulation of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor by the “neurotoxin-like region” of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is selective, allosteric, and concentration-specific (a role in aggression and anxiety?)
Neurotoxin-like region of the SARS-CoV-2 interact with the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. The α7 nAChR is a target for the SARS-CoV-2.
The inoculation of the SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein in the olfactory cavity resulted in brain inflammation and reduced ACh levels in the mouse brain
This investigation shows a link between the S1 subunit of the spike protein, brain inflammation, and reduced production of acetylcholine.
The neurons of the peripheral nervous system serve as an alternative route for invasion of the central nervous system, independent of viremia
After intranasal SARS-CoV-2 inoculation, the findings demonstrated susceptibility of sensory and autonomic neurons of the PNS and CNS to productive infection with SARS-CoV-2 through direct neural invasion that preceded viremia.
SARS-CoV-2 can infect and replicate in human motor neurons differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells
SARS-CoV-2 is able to infect and replicate in an in vitro model of human motor neurons differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells.
SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and receptor-binding domain stimulate human microglia to secrete various proinflammatory mediators
Recombinant full-length S protein and its RBD stimulate human microglia to secrete various proinflammatory mediators via activation of different receptors.
The SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan wild-type strain and variants differently affect the viability and susceptibility to infection of various brain cells (pericytes, astrocytes, endothelial cells, and microglia)
The wild-type Wuhan strain and five variants Alpha, Beta, Delta, Eta, and Omicron, carrying specific mutations that modulate their infectivity and transmissibility, affect the brain cells and the blood-brain barrier differently.
Clinical Studies
Chorea after COVID-19 infection or vaccination
In these two systematic reviews, the authors examined the existing literature on chorea associated with COVID-19 infection or vaccination.
A Korean nationwide study with 558,017 participants found that COVID-vaccinated individuals had a higher incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment
The findings showed an increased incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and its prodromal stage, mild cognitive impairment, in COVID-vaccinated individuals, particularly those receiving mRNA vaccines, within three months post-vaccination.
An advanced MRI technique, quantitative susceptibility mapping at 7 T, revealed microstructural brainstem abnormalities in COVID-19 survivors over months after hospitalization
Non-invasive ultra-high-field 7 T QSM showed imaging evidence of pathophysiological changes and microstructural abnormalities in the brainstem over months after COVID-19 hospitalization.
Neurological symptoms and cognitive impairment were more prevalent in younger and middle-aged patients with neuro-long COVID, and they reported lower quality of life than older patients
Age-related differences in neuro-long COVID showed that younger and middle-aged patients were more severely affected than older patients.
18% of patients with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome were found to have autoantibodies against peripheral nerve structures
This study has shown that serum prevalence of autoreactive IgGs against peripheral nerve structures was significantly higher in PCVS patients than in healthy controls. IgG binding was directed against axons, paranodes, Schmidt-Lanterman incisures, and Schwann cell nuclei.
Postmortem brain samples from COVID-19 convalescents who died within 4-13 months of acute infection showed an Alzheimer’s disease-like increase in hyperphosphorylated tau protein
This study found abnormal accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau proteins in the postmortem human brain samples of hippocampus and medial entorhinal cortex within 4-13 months after acute COVID-19.
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome after mRNA COVID vaccination (autopsy report)
Case report of patient who died of radiographically and pathologically confirmed reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) one day after the third mRNA COVID (BNT162b2) vaccination.
COVID-19-associated unilateral encephalitis (case report)
A rare case of COVID-19-associated unilateral encephalitis, characterized by severe involvement of the left cerebral hemisphere.
Brain proton MR spectroscopy demonstrated neuronal injury and glial dysfunction in the frontal brain regions of long COVID patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms
Brain proton MR spectroscopy demonstrated decreased tNAA and Glu/Gln levels, increased Cho and tCr levels, and altered MI levels (decreased or increased depending on the severity of acute COVID-19) in the frontal brain regions of long COVID patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Cognitive-linguistic difficulties in individuals with post-COVID syndrome
Participants diagnosed with Long COVID performed worse than healthy controls in delayed and immediate verbal recall, informativeness of spoken discourse, letter fluency, and category fluency for animals.
The brain functional connectome in individuals with primarily neurological symptoms of long COVID syndrome
These findings demonstrate characteristics and changes of the complex network known as brain functional connectome in individuals with primarily neurological symptoms of post-COVID syndrome.
Multifocal necrotizing encephalitis, mild myocarditis, and endothelitis after COVID-19 vaccination (autopsy report)
This autopsy report described a case of multifocal necrotizing encephalitis, mild myocarditis, and pathological changes in small blood vessels (endothelitis) that developed after a third COVID-19 vaccination.
The role of hypothalamic circuits and the median eminence, not completely protected by the blood-brain barrier, in brain infection with SARS-CoV-2
Some CNS structures, like the choroid plexus and the circumventricular organs including the hypothalamus, are not completely protected by the BBB and can serve as virus entry points.
Hypotestosteronemia in COVID-19 or post COVID syndrome could be of hypothalamic origin
A persistent hypotestosteronemia in certain patients with COVID-19 or long COVID syndrome could be of hypothalamic origin due to impaired GnRH function, or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
![Correlation between increased [11C]PBR28 PET/MR brain signaling, as an indicator of neuroinflammation, and parameters of vascular health in post-acute COVID-19](https://discovermednews.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/brain-PET-signal-e1710886726856.webp)
Correlation between increased [11C]PBR28 PET/MR brain signaling, as an indicator of neuroinflammation, and parameters of vascular health in post-acute COVID-19
The results provide indirect evidence that differences in PET signal across brain regions, as an indicator of neuroinflammation, could partially reflect variations in vascular health and perivascular immune infiltration in individuals with PASC.
The first onset or relapse of optic neuritis in COVID-19 vaccinated individuals positive for SARS-CoV-2
De novo onset or relapse of optic neuritis in vaccinated individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2.
The correlation of visuospatial deficits with the brain neuroimaging findings, and upregulation of certain biomarkers four months after acute COVID-19
Visuospatial deficit was associated with brain neuroimaging findings, and correlated with the upregulation of certain immune markers in approximately one-quarter of participants four months after acute COVID-19.
Differences in the concentrations of autoantibodies against receptors involved in autonomic regulation between individuals with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome and vaccinated healthy subjects could be related to dysautonomia
The concentrations of autoantibodies against receptors involved in autonomic regulation and serum levels of IL-6/IL-8 can distinguish individuals with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome from healthy vaccinated individuals.
A new-onset small fiber neuropathy in individuals with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome
A case series of a new onset small fiber neuropathy with symptoms of dysautonomia and neuropathy, that developed after COVID-19.
Individuals with long COVID syndrome have reduced corneal innervation and increased density of corneal dendritic cells more than 20 months after acute COVID-19
These results show a decrease in corneal nerve density and branch density, as well as an increase in dendritic cell density in patients with long COVID in comparison to the control group.
Circulating HERV-W ENV proteins and increased proinflammatory cytokines were detected only in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients hospitalized for psychosis spectrum disorders
This study demonstrated increased expression of HERV-W ENV proteins and proinflammatory cytokines only in hospitalized patients with psychosis spectrum disorders who were positive for SARS-CoV-2. The finding of HERV-W ENVs only in seropositive patients suggests a strong link between HERV-W activation, cytokine expression, and SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Case series of hemorrhagic myelitis with poor clinical recovery after the SARS-CoV-2 infection
An uncommon disease, hemorrhagic myelitis was presented in three cases following SARS-CoV-2 infection, with minimal or no improvement during follow-up.
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) can develop after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination
A systematic review of the medical literature on cases of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis (AHLE) that occurred after severe acute SARS-CoV-2 infection or CoVID-19 vaccination.
Systemic reaction with predominant neurological and skin manifestations following the third dose of the mRNA-1273 COVID vaccine (case report)
A case of a systemic reaction, characterized by predominant neurological (electroencephalography and MRI findings) and skin manifestations (tinea inguinalis and tinea capitis) that occurred following the third dose of the mRNA-1273 vaccine,
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) can develop after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination
The infection with SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 vaccination are associated with de novo onset or relapse of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation demonstrated abnormal GABA-ergic and glutamatergic regulation of the motor cortex excitability in individuals with post-COVID syndrome and cognitive deficits
Patients diagnosed with long COVID syndrome and cognitive deterioration had significantly reduced long-interval intracortical inhibition that depends on slow inhibitory post-synaptic potentials mediated through GABA receptors and an abnormal pattern of intracortical facilitation, which is associated with glutamatergic excitatory signaling.
The presence of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in the skull-meninges-brain axis in the mouse model and human postmortem tissue samples
The findings of this study suggest an alternative route for the SARSCoV-2 S protein entry into the CNS, wherein it might reache first the skull marrow and meninges before entering the brain.
Individuals with post-COVID neuropsychiatric symptoms have abnormal brain activation during working memory tasks
The first task-activated BOLD-fMRI study conducted in individuals diagnosed with post-COVID neuropsychiatric symptoms discovered a different brain activity and reorganized working memory network in post-COVID participants.
Cardiovascular System
In vitro & Animal studies
The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein acts as an allosteric agonist of β-adrenergic receptors and contributes to sympathetic hyperactivity
This study is the first to show that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein activates β-adrenergic receptors in cardiomyocytes, contributes to cardiac sympathetic hyperactivity and increases activation of downstream β-adrenergic receptor signaling induced by epinephrine.
SARS-CoV-2 spike protein activates human cardiac fibroblasts and promotes cardiac fibrosis
The S1 protein activates human CFs by priming NLRP3 inflammasomes through NF-κB signaling in an ACE2-dependent way.
The mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccines induce different cardiotoxic effects and dysfunction in isolated cardiomyocytes
This study showed for the first time that mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccines induced cardiotoxic effects with disturbances of normal contractile function in rat cardiomyocytes. The effects of vaccines differed fundamentally in their pathophysiological mechanisms.
SARS-CoV-2 infection and additional hypoxic stress deteriorated cardiac function and disrupted vascular network formation in human cardiac tissue model
Human iPS cell-based cardiac tissue model shows that cardiac tissue exposed to persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection is at high risk for cardiac dysfunction.
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Clinical Studies
Intussusceptive angiogenesis could be the main driver for a specific cardiac injury induced by SARS-CoV-2
The most remarkable finding in the cardiac remodeling triggered by the SARS-CoV-2 infection was a marked neovascularization in the form of intussusceptive angiogenesis, which was associated with a significant infiltration of CD11b+/TIE2+ macrophages, which are drivers of intussusceptive angiogenesis.
Recurrent venous thromboembolism in patients who discontinued anticoagulant therapy for COVID-19-associated venous thromboembolism after at least three months of treatment
After discontinuation of anticoagulation therapy, recurrent VTE occurred in 3.5% of patients, with a rate of 3.1 per 100 patient-years, and no fatal pulmonary embolism.
A Korean nationwide study conducted on more than 44 million vaccinated individuals found that the incidence of myocarditis associated with COVID vaccination was highest in males aged 12 to 17 years, and the most serious adverse effect was sudden cardiac death
The authors concluded that the findings of sudden cardiac deaths attributable to COVID vaccine-related myocarditis warrant the careful monitoring or warning of sudden cardiac death as a potentially fatal complication of COVID-19 vaccination, especially in individuals younger than 45 years of age who received the mRNA vaccines.
Orthostatic intolerance associated with decreased levels of circulating growth hormone was found in long COVID patients under 20 years of age
This study showed a high rate (38%) of standing test positivity in patients with long COVID. The ST-positive long COVID patients under 20 years of age had decreased circulating growth hormone levels.
Spontaneous dissection of the internal carotid artery in a fully vaccinated woman infected with SARS-CoV-2 (case report)
This case report describes a fully vaccinated woman positive for a non-Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 who experienced a spontaneous internal carotid dissection. A dissection was treated successfully with a flow-diverter stent.
Endothelial dysfunction detected after the second BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccination was restored within six months
After the second BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination, brachial artery flow-mediated dilation assessment showed endothelial dysfunction in relatively healthy participants, which was restored within six months.
Severe thickening and fibrosis of the vessel walls, smooth muscle cell proliferation, and lumen occlusion were found in the placental arteries of women infected with SARS-CoV-2
The results show severe vascular remodeling of placental arteries, including severe thickening of the vessel walls and the occlusion of the vessel lumen, in women with COVID-19 during pregnancy.
Higher 18F-FDG uptake was detected in the myocardium, axilla, liver, and spleen of asymptomatic vaccinated individuals up to 6 months after the second mRNA COVID-19 vaccination (PET/CT study)
Individuals who were asymptomatic and underwent PET/CT within a period of 180 days following their second vaccination had increased 18Fluorine-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the myocardium, axilla, liver, and spleen as compared to unvaccinated individuals.
SARS-CoV-2 can infect and replicate in macrophages within atherosclerotic plaques in the human coronary artery wall
SARS-CoV-2 was detected and replicated in the coronary arteries sampled at autopsy of severe COVID-19 cases. The virus targeted plaque macrophages and demonstrated a stronger tropism for arterial wall lesions than for perivascular fat.
The VAERS reporting rates of myocarditis/pericarditis after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination demonstrate a higher reporting rate mainly after the second dose, particularly among young males
In this retrospective pharmacovigilance study of safety signals associated with myocarditis/pericarditis after the primary and up to three booster doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, the second dose of the vaccines showed the strongest signal in vaccinated individuals under 25 years old.
Cardiac MRI signs of non-ischemic myocardial fibrosis were found in 30% of patients diagnosed with long COVID syndrome
30% of patients diagnosed with long COVID syndrome had cardiac MRI signs of non-ischemic fibrosis, exceeding the prevalence of this disease in the normal adult population.
Extensive thrombosis of cerebral venous sinuses and similar organization of cerebral thrombi were found in all three patients who died of vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia
The authors performed the immunohistological analysis of clots from three people who died from cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) related to vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) after receiving a single dose of ChAdOX1-nCoV-19, AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccines.
PET and MRI detected myocardial inflammation and edema in a small proportion of patients diagnosed with acute myocarditis within 14 days of mRNA COVID-19 vaccination
PET and MRI visualization of myocardial tissue has shown localized myocardial inflammation and edema in a small proportion of patients with symptomatic myocarditis approximately two months after COVID-19 vaccination.
The mRNA COVID-19 vaccination increases the risk of retinal vascular occlusion
The overall risk of all forms of retinal vascular occlusion was 2.19 times higher in the vaccinated cohort than in the unvaccinated cohort within two years after COVID-19 vaccination.
Patients with acute COVID-19 and convalescents who recovered after severe COVID-19 were found to have elevated levels of anti-desmoglein 2 autoantibodies
The results showed the possible association between anti-Dsg2 autoantibodies and post-COVID-19 cardiac sequelae.
Other Body Systems
In vitro & Animal studies
The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein impacts retinal development in retinal organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells
This work highlights different effects of SARS-CoV-2 S protein on both early and late stages of retinal development, and provides insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of these effects.
The striking molecular mimicry between SARS-CoV-2 and human EnaC-alpha may contribute to reduced reabsorption of alveolar fluid at the air-liquid interface
SARS-CoV-2 S protein may compete for the same processing protease with EnaC-alpha, a sodium permeable ion channel that controls fluid reabsorption at the air–liquid interface.
SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was co-localized with increased expression of vascular and autophagy markers in the placental tissue of unvaccinated infected women
Increased expression of VEGF and the endothelial cell marker CD34 indicates alterations, disarrangements, or remodeling of normal vasculature, associated with vascular endothelial injury and endothelitis.
SARS-CoV-2 enters human erythrocytes but does not affect the development of Plasmodium falciparum
SARS-CoV-2 enters human erythrocytes, but in a low percentage of cells (10.9%) compared to SARS-CoV-2 permissive cell lines. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in blood culture did not affect the survival or growth rate of the malaria parasite.
The BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine alters the activity of human ovarian granulosa cells (possible link with menstrual disorders)
The BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine directly affects the activity of ovarian granulosa cells, which is a unique, independent mechanism for vaccine-related menstrual abnormalities.
Intranasal infection of mice with SARS-CoV-2 led to retinal inflammation and elevated viral titers in the lungs and brain
The prolonged presence of SARS-CoV-2 S protein in ocular tissues (thirty days after the intravitreal injection) resulted in microaneurysms, retinal atrophy, and retinal vein occlusion.
SARS-CoV-2 preferentially infects intestinal cells via their apical side and causes damage to the intestinal epithelial barrier
Inoculation of SARS-CoV-2 at the apical pole resulted in the severe damage to the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier, suggesting that the virus present in the intestinal lumen could damage the intestinal epithelial barrier, enter the blood vessels and spread to various organs.
The RBD of SARS-CoV-2 S1 subunit binds to kidney injury molecule-1, which is highly expressed upon kidney injury
The receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 binds to kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM1), which is highly expresed only upon kidney injury.
SARS-CoV-2 can infect hepatocytes and stimulate hepatic glucose production through gluconeogenesis
SARS-CoV-2 can infect, replicate, and produce infectious viral particles in primary human hepatocytes and stimulate their production of glucose through gluconeogenesis.
Clinical Studies
Sex-specific differences in the gene transcriptomics of peripheral blood cells are observed in vaccinated patients with post-COVID syndrome
The gene expression in men with post-COVID syndrome differed from that of men who had recovered after COVID-19, with 399 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared to men who had recovered after COVID-19 and to control men. These DEGs showed high enrichment in genes related to erythrocyte development and differentiation and heme metabolism.
New-onset or relapse of uveitis within a month after COVID-19 infection or vaccination
These studies found an association between COVID-19 infection or vaccination and newly diagnosed or recurrent uveitis.
Higher serum ferritin levels distinguish long COVID patients who subsequently developed a clinical diagnosis of ME/CFS from those who did not meet the ME/CFS criteria
This study revealed that patients with long COVID who developed ME/CFS based on all of the three internationally standardized criteria had increased serum ferritin levels, identifyng serum ferritin as a possible biomarkers for detecting the transition to an ME/CFS condition, especially in female patients.
Testosterone, TMPRSS-2 and P450 aromatase are markers for the severity of COVID-19 (testosterone as a regulator of TMPRSS2 expression)
Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 were found to have higher TMPRSS-2 and P450 aromatase levels and lower testosterone levels, suggesting that TMPRSS2, testosterone, and P450 aromatase can be used as markers of poor prognosis or increased disease severity in COVID-19.
SARS-CoV-2 antigens can persist in plasma for up to 14 months after acute infection
Analysis of temporal antigen profiles, performed by collecting blood samples at multiple time points, revealed that the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 plasma antigens was 10.6% 3-6 months after the onset of COVID-19, 8.7% after 6-10 months and 5.4% after 10-14 months.
The persistence of residual SARS-CoV-2 RNA or proteins in different tissue samples four months after infection
This study showed the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid in solid tissue samples from various organs, including lung, liver, kidney, stomach, intestine, brain, breast, thyroid, blood vessels, and skin, in patients who had recovered from mild COVID-19 at one month, two months, and four months post-infection.
De novo onset or exacerbation of psoriasis following the SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination
This study described a case series of 28 patients who experienced de novo onset or flares of psoriasis following infection with the SARS-CoV-2 or vaccination. All of these patients were successfully managed with anti-IL-17 or anti-IL-23 medications.
Tuberculous pericarditis with tamponade in COVID-19
These case reports presented individuals who were diagnosed with COVID-19 and who developed tuberculous pericarditis with tamponade.
SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antigens were detected in the appendix and breast tissues of two post-COVID patients 426 and 175 days after the onset of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection
This study investigated the presence of residual SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antigens in tissues of two patients diagnosed with post-COVID syndrome.
Various time modes of proteomic recovery within two years after acute COVID-19
The results showed that different biological processes recovered in different time modes within two years after COVID-19, providing insights into the biological processes of the different long COVID syndrome phenotypes.
50% of vaccinated individuals were found to have circulating fragments of recombinant S protein 2–6 months after vaccination
50% of subjects who received mRNA-based vaccines had specific fragments of recombinant S protein in their blood samples 2–6 months after vaccination.
Circulating HERV-W envelope proteins and elevated levels of anti-SAR-CoV-2 IgE antibodies were detected in patients with post-COVID syndrome one year after the acute infection
HERV-W ENV protein was expressed in 58% of plasma samples of post-COVID patients, long after the acute SARS-CoV-2 infection was resolved .75% of post-COVID patients had elevated levels of anti-S and anti-N IgE antibodies compared to pre-pandemic controls.
Leprosy following COVID-19 vaccination
This study investigated leprosy or immune-mediated complications known as leprosy reactions diagnosed in the Leprosy Clinic at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London, within 12 weeks following COVID-19 vaccination.
HERV-W envelope proteins detected in plasma, blood cells and postmortem tissues of severe COVID-19 patients could serve as biomarkers of COVID-19 severity
SARS-CoV-2 can induce the expression of the HERV-W envelope proteins, suggesting their involvement in COVID-19-associated pathology.
A case series of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination
The largest case series of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination.
129Xe MRI red blood cells-to-alveolar tissue barrier ratio shows abnormal gas exchange in long COVID patients
A lower 129Xe MRI RBC-to-barrier ratio in long COVID patients suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection may have caused some microstructural abnormality to one or two volumes, such as pulmonary embolism, pulmonary blood flow alterations, or alveolar membrane thickening, which leads to decreased blood volume.
Children & Adolescents
Nervous system
Acute necrotizing encephalopathy in children infected with the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2
This retrospective study of 4,520 pediatric patients infected with the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 demonstrated that acute necrotizing encephalopathy and pneumonia with comorbidities were the main causes of death.
Cerebrovascular lesions and brain vascular abnormalities in children infected with the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 (MRI study)
This study has shown cerebrovascular lesions and vascular abnormalities in a high proportion (48.4%) of children with severe neurological manifestations of infection with the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2.
Neurodevelopmental disorders and microcephaly after in utero SARS-CoV-2 exposure (case reports)
Clinical findings, placental pathology, and immunohistochemical analysis strongly suggest that second-trimester maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and placentitis triggered an inflammatory response in the fetoplacental unit that affected the fetal brain.
Acute encephalopathy in unvaccinated children infected with the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 (Japanese nationwide epidemiological study)
A significantly higher number of patients with SARS-CoV-2-associated acute encephalopathy experienced severe disability or even death than patients with acute encephalopathy not associated with SARS-CoV-2.
The SARS-CoV-2 proteins were found in the fetal brain cortical hemorrhages during early gestation
This study reported the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in fetal brain tissue, associated with cortical hemorrhages, and linked to reduced blood vessel integrity and monocyte infiltration of the hemorrhagic cortex. SARS-COV-2 antigens were also detected in the placenta, amnion, and umbilical cord during early gestation (the first and second trimesters of pregnancy).
Neurodevelopmental sequelae in fetuses exposed to maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection may be gender-specific
This study demonstrated that the risk of neurodevelopmental sequelae in fetuses exposed to maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection was gender-specific.
Pediatric patients with the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 have a higher rate of simple or complex febrile seizures compared to children infected with non-Omicron variants
The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 was associated with a higher rate of febrile seizures and unconsciousness in infected children compared to non-Omicron variants.
Other Body Systems
Phase-resolved functional lung MRI revealed pulmonary perfusion abnormalities in children and adolescents with post-COVID syndrome (84% COVID-vaccinated)
PREFUL MRI parameters revealed subtle pulmonary changes in children and adolescents with post-COVID syndrome, such as reduced regional ventilation and perfusion.
Hypertrophic tonsils as the SARS-CoV-2 reservoir in children: 23% of tonsil and adenoid tissue samples of children who had undergone adenotonsillectomy, were positive for the SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein
A discovery of the structural SARS-CoV-2 protein in situ in adenoids and palatine tonsils, in both epithelial and lymphomononuclear cells of different lymphoid compartments, suggests that the tonsils may be sites of prolonged infection, even without recent COVID-19 symptoms.
Elevated levels of non-inflammatory IgG4 antibodies specific for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were found in children aged 5 to 11 years one year after the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccination
This study found, for the first time in children, that levels of IgG4 antibodies specific for S1 and RBD significantly increased one year after the second vaccination compared to baseline.
The adverse events in adolescents aged 12–19 years after COVID-19 vaccination (Norwegian nationwide study)
This nationwide registry-based study has shown increased risks of adverse events, including anaphylactic reaction, lymphadenopathy, and myocarditis/pericarditis in older adolescents aged 12–19 years, after the second mRNA COVID-19 vaccination.
Maternal-fetal transmission of the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, viral tropism for various fetal brain cells and brain gliosis (animal study)
The results showed significant level of maternal-fetal transmission of delta variant SARS-CoV-2 in later stages of mice pregnancy, and viral tropism for various fetal brain cells, like endothelial cells of blood vessels, barrier cells of the choroid plexus, neurons, and glial cells.
Differently expressed human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) and immune mediators in children diagnosed with COVID-19, Kawasaki disease, or multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C)
HERV-related genes, HERVs, and immune mediators are differently upregulated in children diagnosed with acute COVID-19, acute or subacute KD, and acute or subacute MIS-C, supporting the role of HERVs in inflammatory diseases and their interaction with the immune system.
Children aged 5 to 11 years were found to have changes in cytokine responses to heterologous pathogens and SARS-CoV-2 antigens up to six months after their second BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination
Since a decrease in immune response to other pathogens makes children more susceptible to other infections, the authors concluded that these findings highlight the need for further consideration of vaccination policy.
58% of adolescents diagnosed with COVID vaccine-associated myocarditis had subclinical myocardial dysfunction up to one year after the diagnosis
This study showed persistence of residual late gadolinium enhancement in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in 58% of adolescents with COVID vaccine-associated myocarditis up to one year of follow-up.
Children and adolescents infected with SARS-CoV-2 or vaccinated against COVID-19 were found to have increased median deformation of red blood cells
The median deformation of RBCs was higher in seropositive and vaccinated participants than in seronegative participants, but only within 6 months of SARS-CoV-2-seroconversion.
Stool samples from newborns, born to mothers with COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, contained SARS-CoV-2 RNA and S protein at delivery, indicating in utero transmission of the virus to the fetal intestine
The mechanism of in utero transmission to the fetal intestine remains unclear. Since viral RNA was detected in the placenta and amniotic fluid, this might be the pathway of viral transmission.
The Virus
The P3 peptide of the SARS-CoV2 spike protein shares sequence homology with Staphylococcus aureus superantigens and several endogenous mammalian proteins and induces T-cell proliferation
This study identified a small peptide P3 in the S2 subunit of the SARS-CoV2 S protein with sequence homology to bacterial superantigens and the capacity to induce unexpected proliferation of T-cells.
The XEC variant of SARS-CoV-2 exhibits higher pseudovirus infectivity and immune evasion
SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant exhibited a higher pseudovirus infectivity and immune evasion compared to KP.3, indicating that XEC will be a predominant SARS-CoV-2 variant in the near future.
Histamine receptor H1 acts as an ACE2-independent receptor for SARS-CoV-2, but also synergistically interacts with ACE2 and facilitates ACE2-dependent viral entry
Histamine receptor H1 acts as an independent receptor for SARS-CoV-2. The antihistamine drugs effectively inhibited the binding of HRH1 to the S protein and viral infection.
Molecular similarities between antigenic sites of the SARS-CoV-2 RBD and 54 antigenic determinants of fifteen pathogens (bacteria, parasites, and viruses)
Seven antigenic sites of SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD showed molecular similarities with 54 antigenic determinants found in fifteen pathogen microorganisms, including bacteria, parasites and viruses.
SARS-CoV-2 variant KP.2 (JN.1.11.1.2) exhibits increased immune resistance
This study showed an increased immune resistance of KP.2 variant and its ability to evade neutralizing antibodies to a greater extent than previous variants, including JN.1.
Prion-like domains in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein
Different beta-coronaviruses (β-CoVs) contain prion-like domains in the S proteins. However, SARS-CoV-2 is the only β-CoV with prion-like domains identified within the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the S protein.
SARS-CoV-2 spike protein activates the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), its downstream signaling pathways and the anti-apoptotic protein survivin
SARS-CoV-2 S1 subunit and RBD activate the EGFR and its downstream signaling pathways and increase the expression and activation of the anti-apoptotic protein survivin.
The classification of SARS-CoV-2 variants into five serotypes based on the antigenicity of the receptor-binding domain
Chinese researchers propose the classification of SARS-CoV-2 variants into five serotypes based on the antigenicity of the receptor-binding domain
Omicron variants may have been artificially synthesized rather than naturally formed
The authors emphasized that the Omicron isolates BA.1, BA.1.1, and BA.2 are formed by a completely new mechanism that cannot be explained by previous biology and that it is highly unlikely that these viruses arose spontaneously.
TMEM106B protein can serve as an alternative receptor for SARS-CoV-2 entry into ACE2-negative host cells
TMEM106B, a lysosomal transmembrane protein, can serve as an alternative receptor for the entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 into the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor-negative cells.
The “bacteriophage-like” behavior of SARS-CoV-2 (the SARS-CoV-2 genome can replicate outside the human body)
The interaction between fecal bacteria and the SARS-CoV-2 suggests a ‘bacteriophage-like’ behavior of SARS-CoV-2.
Delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 increased the volumes of environmental biofilms and remained viable for up to five days
The virus was viable for up to five days with and without an environmental biofilm on all surfaces tested. The SARS-CoV-2 viability was highly correlated with the microorganisms forming the biofilms.
SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein is electrically conductive and reacts with gold, silicon, copper, and platinum electrodes and denatures. A method of coronavirus deactivation?
These findings provide new opportunities for developing coronavirus-capturing materials that are capable of irreversibly trapping the virus via strong covalent bonds.
Immunity, Inflammation & Immune Dysregulation
One year after mRNA COVID-19 immunization, the young people showed elevated cytokine levels, suggesting ongoing stimulation of the immune system
The results showed that vaccination led to increased cytokine levels even one year after vaccination. Furthermore, the results indicated differences in cytokine levels based on gender and age.
The changes in innate and adaptive immune cells, as well as a shift from Th1 to Th2 cytokine pattern, were found in unvaccinated COVID-19 convalescents 10 months after the infection
A follow-up study of immune parameters in unvaccinated COVID-19 convalescents 10 weeks and 10 months after a first and mostly mild infection with the Wuhan-strain Hu-1 showed a long-term reduction of innate and adaptive immune cells, associated with a shift from Th1 to Th2 cytokine pattern.
Immunological and other features of post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome
This study demonstrated immunological and other characteristics in individuals experiencing persistent symptoms following COVID-19 vaccination.
Passive transfer of IgG from patients with long COVID induces mechanical and thermal sensitivity and impairs locomotor activity in mice
These findings demonstrate that transfer of IgG from long COVID patients to mice replicates disease symptoms, underscoring a causative and heterogeneous role of IgG in the pathogenesis of long COVID.
The rapid waning of serum antibodies after mRNA vaccination is due to the inability of mRNA vaccines to induce long-lived plasma cells in the bone marrow
This study showed the exclusion of SARS-CoV-2 specificity from the bone marrow long-lived plasma cell (LLPC) compartment and the inability of mRNA vaccines to induce necessary precursor programs to fully mature into the bone marrow LLPC.
COVID-19 vaccination increased concentrations of IgE specific for the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain and IgG4
This study revealed increased IgE levels specific for the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 in individuals who had been immunized with the ChAdOx1, CoronaVac and mRNA BNT162b2 vaccines. Additionally, IgG4 levels detected after booster mRNA BNT162b2 vaccination, showed a moderate correlation with IgE levels.
Elevated levels of non-inflammatory IgG4 antibodies specific for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were found in children aged 5 to 11 years one year after the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccination
This study found, for the first time in children, that levels of IgG4 antibodies specific for S1 and RBD significantly increased one year after the second vaccination compared to baseline.
Immune response in people from malaria-endemic regions of Ghana, exposed to Plasmodium falciparum and positive for SARS-CoV-2
Immune modulation associated with exposure to Plasmodium falciparum may contribute to a reduced severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection among people living in malaria-endemic regions.
IgG4-related diseases (sialadenitis, pancreatitis, and hepatopathy) after COVID-19 vaccination
Two cases of immunoglobulin (Ig)G4-related diseases that developed after COVID vaccination.
IgG4-related ophthalmic disease after COVID-19 vaccination (case report)
The authors present a patient who developed the ocular manifestation of immunoglobulin (Ig)G4-related disease, referred to as IgG4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD), after COVID vaccination.
A diversity of intracellular microbes in immune cells of SARS-CoV-2-positive and COVID-19-recovered individuals
This study demonstrates diversity of intracellular microbes in immune cells of healthy individuals, SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, and COVID-19 recovered individuals.
Long COVID patients were found to have the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 antigens, chronic inflammation, reactivation of latent herpes viruses, and decrease of cortisol levels more than one year after acute infection
Biological (immunological, virological and hormonal) features of long COVID syndrome more than one year after acute infection.
Increased T-cell activation in many anatomical regions and SARS-CoV-2-specific RNA in rectosigmoid cells were detected in vaccinated COVID convalescents up to 2.5 years after initial infection
A whole-body positron emission tomography with a novel radiopharmaceutical [18F]F-AraG showed increased T cell activation in numerous anatomical regions in vaccinated COVID convalescents up to 2.5 years after initial SARS-CoV-2 infection.
The bacterial lipopolysaccharide binds to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and drives the formation of large S protein aggregates
These findings have established a significant link between excessive inflammation during SARS-CoV-2 infection and comorbidities associated with increased levels of bacterial endotoxins. This synergism between LPS and the S protein is of clinical and therapeutic importance.
Children aged 5 to 11 years were found to have changes in cytokine responses to heterologous pathogens and SARS-CoV-2 antigens up to six months after their second BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination
Since a decrease in immune response to other pathogens makes children more susceptible to other infections, the authors concluded that these findings highlight the need for further consideration of vaccination policy.
Concurrent infection with different intracellular pathogens can lead to accelerated T-cell exhaustion and potentially severe consequences
This paper discusses the possible interactions between the first and the second intracellular pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi and protozoan parasites, when they concurrently infect the same host cells.
Distinct immunological signature and specific immune response to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein in individuals diagnosed with neurological manifestations of post-acute COVID syndrome
Individuals with neuro-PASC had a distinct pattern of T cell activation and specific immune responses against the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) protein.
Unique monocyte signatures in subgroups of long COVID patients indicate that long COVID phenotypes could be driven by distinct mechanisms
Unique monocyte signatures define subgroups of long COVID patients and confirm prolonged changes in innate immunity during COVID-19 convalescence. Given the heterogeneity of clinical presentations, it seems likely that distinct pathophysiological pathways cause different long COVID phenotypes
Immunocompromised patients with advanced HIV infection have high levels of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein genetic diversity
According to the authors, high levels of SARS-CoV-2 S protein genetic diversity in individuals with advanced poorly controlled HIV infection markedly increase the risk for the emergence of new VOCs in these individuals.
Repeated mRNA COVID vaccinations increase the levels of IgG4 antibodies specific for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and IgG4-switched memory B cells
Irrgang et al were the first to report an increase in the proportion of IgG4 antibodies specific for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, starting after the second and increasing further after the third mRNA COVID vaccination.
Autoimmune response
18% of patients with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome were found to have autoantibodies against peripheral nerve structures
This study has shown that serum prevalence of autoreactive IgGs against peripheral nerve structures was significantly higher in PCVS patients than in healthy controls. IgG binding was directed against axons, paranodes, Schmidt-Lanterman incisures, and Schwann cell nuclei.
Differences in the concentrations of autoantibodies against receptors involved in autonomic regulation between individuals with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome and vaccinated healthy subjects could be related to dysautonomia
The concentrations of autoantibodies against receptors involved in autonomic regulation and serum levels of IL-6/IL-8 can distinguish individuals with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome from healthy vaccinated individuals.
29% of healthcare workers vaccinated with three doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines had de novo production of antinuclear antibodies
A significant proportion (29%) of healthcare workers developed de novo production of antinuclear antibodies after three mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. The most prevalent was a homogeneous pattern of ANA.
Temporal dynamics of anti-chemokine autoantibodies in COVID-19 and long-COVID syndrome
The findings suggest that higher levels of autoantibodies directed against specific chemokines are associated with favorable disease outcomes in COVID-19 convalescents.
Treatment
The carbohydrate ProLectin M increased viral clearance in patients with mild to severe COVID-19 by antagonizing the binding of galectin-3 to the S1 subunit of the SARS-CoV-2
The carbohydrate PL-M can reduce the viral load in Vero cells. In clinical studies with COVID-19 patients, PL-M treatment resulted in a rapid reduction of viral load and increased viral clearance, with no adverse effects.
Dose-dependent antiviral effect of probenecid in COVID-19
This study showed a dose-dependent antiviral effect of a uricosuric agent probenecid in patients with symptomatic, mild-to-moderate COVID-19.
Positive effects of the flavonol quercetin in COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 syndrome
Numerous studies demonstrated the positive effects of quercetin in in COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 syndrome, including direct inhibition of viral entry into the host cells, inhibition of viral replication, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects.
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Anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties of natural products derived from plants, honey, and marine sponges
This study analyzes recent research on natural products derived from plants, honey, and marine sponges with properties against the SARS-CoV-2, as well as several potential mechanisms of their action,
Metformin reduces the viral load and the incidence of long COVID syndrome in outpatients infected with SARS-CoV-2
Two randomized, placebo-controlled trials show that metformin reduces the viral load of SARS-CoV-2 and the incidence of long COVID syndrome.
Graded exercise therapy for individuals with long COVID syndrome and postexertional malaise: Pro et Contra
In their recent articles, several authors have discussed the clinical management of autonomic dysfunction and graded exercise therapy for individuals diagnosed with long-COVID or PACS syndrome.
21% of vaccinated COVID-19 outpatients treated with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir had a virologic rebound phenomenon and a substantially prolongated shedding of replication-competent viruses
This study demonstrated that virologic rebound was found in 21% of COVID-19 outpatients treated with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir.
Acyclovir clinically resolved or significantly improved symptoms in patients diagnosed with long COVID syndrome
Two case series studies demonstrated that four patients with long COVID improved with chronic use of acyclovir.