COVID-19 Resource Page
Acute COVID-19 & Nervous System
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?)
These results demonstrated that nAChR subtypes interact with the neurotoxin-like region of the SARS-CoV-2, confirming that the α7 nAChR is a target for the SARS-CoV-2.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Post-COVID/ Post-vaccination syndrome & Nervous System
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.
Brain MR spectroscopy shows neuronal injury and glial dysfunction in patients with post-COVID neuropsychiatric symptoms
The observed changes in Glu/Gln balance, total N-acetyl-compound levels and MI provided evidence of neuronal injury or loss as ell as persistent neuroinflammation and glial dysfunction in the brains of post-COVID individuals, and are consistent with findings associated with brain damage in other neurodegenerative diseases, such as neuroHIV.
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.
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.
![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.
A new-onset small fiber neuropathy after COVID-19
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.
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 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.
Case report: a systemic reaction with predominant neurological and skin manifestations following the third dose of the mRNA-1273 vaccine
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 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.
Altered GABA-ergic regulation of the motor cortex excitability in patients with post-COVID cognitive deficits (TMS study)
Results showed significantly altered γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic inhibition in the motor cortex of participants with long COVID syndrome and cognitive deterioration.
Abnormal brain activation during working memory task in individuals with post-COVID neuropsychiatric symptoms
This is the first task-activated BOLD-fMRI study in the post-COVID participants with neuropsychiatric symptoms. Results showed that brain activity in the post-COVID participants differed from activity registered in healthy control participants with no prior history of COVID-19.
Acute COVID-19 & Cardiovascular System
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.
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.
Severe thickening and fibrosis of the vessel walls, 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.
SARS-CoV-2 can infect atherosclerotic plaques in human coronary arteries
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.
Individuals with acute COVID-19 and COVID-19 convalescents have elevated levels of anti-desmoglein 2 autoantibodies
The results showed the possible association between anti-Dsg2 autoantibodies and post-COVID-19 cardiac sequelae.
Post-COVID/Post-vaccination syndrome & Cardiovascular System
The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein acts as an allosteric agonist of β-adrenergic receptors (a possible mechanism underlying cardiovascular symptoms in long-COVID patients)
This study is the first to show that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein acts as an allosteric agonist of β1- and β2 adrenergic receptors, which activates β-adrenergic receptors in cardiomyocytes and contributes to cardiac sympathetic hyperactivity.
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.
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.
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.
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 demonstrated signs of non-ischemic myocardial fibrosis in 30% of patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome
Cardiac MRI revealed signs of non-ischemic myocardial fibrosis in 30% of patients with PASC, exceeding the prevalence of this disease in the normal adult population.
Postmortem analysis of cerebral venous thrombi related to vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia
An immunohistological analysis of cerebral thrombi from three fatal cases of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) related to vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT).
Cardiac sequelae of acute myocarditis after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination (PET and MRI study)
PET and MRI visualization of myocardial tissue showed that localized myocardial inflammation and edema is present in a small proportion of patients with symptomatic myocarditis at approximately 2 months after anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
Retinal vascular occlusion after COVID-19 vaccination
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.
Acute COVID-19 & Other Body Systems
Co-localization of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein with increased expression of vascular and autophagy markers in the placental tissue of unvaccinated women infected with SARS-CoV-2
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can infect the human placenta. In this study, the authors from Italy performed immunohistochemical analyses to determine whether SARS-CoV-2 alters markers involved in vascular damage and the autophagic...
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.
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.
Retinal inflammation and microvascular abnormalities in mice exposed to SARS-CoV-2 via the intranasal route
The intranasal infection of K18-hACE2 mice with SARS-CoV-2 led to viral positivity in various parts of the eye, including the retina and the anterior segment tissue, and elevated viral titers in the lungs and brain.
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.
SARS-CoV-2 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.
Severe thickening and fibrosis of the vessel walls, 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.
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.
SARS-CoV-2 can infect hepatocytes and stimulate hepatic glucose production through gluconeogenesis
The SARS-CoV-2 infects hepatocytes and stimulates their production of glucose through gluconeogenesis.
Post-COVID/Post-vaccination syndrome & Other Body Systems
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.
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.
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.
Circulating fragments of recombinant S protein were identified in 50% of vaccinated individuals 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.
A case series of 14 patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with COVID-19 or vaccination
In a recent study, Australian authors presented the largest case series of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination.
Patients with post-COVID syndrome have abnormal gas exchange, measured by 129Xe MRI red blood cells-to–alveolar tissue barrier ratio
Results showed that subgroups of nonhospitalized and posthospitalized participants with long COVID had significantly lower 129Xe MRI RBC-to–alveolar tissue barrier ratio than healthy volunteers, but there was no difference between measurements in the subgroups.
Graves’ disease after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination, with the persistence of autoantibodies one year after the vaccination
A case report of new-onset Graves’ disease after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination, with the persistence of autoantibodies one year after the vaccination.
Acute COVID-19 in Children & Adolescents
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.
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.
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.
HERVs, inflammatory and regulatory cytokines are differently expressed in children diagnosed with COVID-19, Kawasaki disease, or MIS-C
This study has shown differences in the upregulation of HERVs, HERV-related genes, and immune mediators in children diagnosed with acute COVID-19, acute or subacute KD, and acute or subacute MIS-C.
SARS-CoV-2 RNA and spike protein detected in neonatal feces indicate in utero viral transmission to the fetal intestine
The fecal samples of newborns with negative SARS CoV-2 nasal PCR results, born to mothers with COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, at delivery contained SARS-CoV-2 RNAs and S proteins. This suggests the risk of in utero transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to the fetal intestine during gestation.
Post-COVID/Post-vaccination Syndrome in Children & Adolescents
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.
Altered cytokine responses to heterologous pathogens and Toll-like receptor agonists were found in children aged 5 to 11 years up to six months after their second BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination
Cytokine and chemokine responses to bacterial, fungal, viral, and Toll-like receptor agonist stimulation decreased at 28 days after the 2nd vaccination. A sustained decrease in cytokine response to viral stimulants, but not to bacterial stimulants was found six months after the 2nd BNT162b2 vaccination
Cardiac outcomes in adolescents diagnosed with COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis indicate subclinical myocardial dysfunction in 58% of patients up to one year after the diagnosis
The researchers suggested that these results are indicators of subclinical myocardial dysfunction and fibrosis with a potential long-term effect on exercise capacity and cardiac functional reserve during stress.
Increased median deformation of red blood cells in children and adolescents after SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination
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.
The Virus
Histamine receptor H1 acts as an independent receptor for SARS-CoV-2
Histamine receptor H1 acts as an independent receptor for SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, H1 directly interacts with ACE2, synergistically enhancing ACE2-dependent viral entry.
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 formation of part of the Omicron isolates BA.1, BA.1.1, and BA.2 was not the result of genome evolution as is common in nature. The authors emphasized that the SARS-CoV-2 isolates 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 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 remained viable and infectious for up to five days in environmental biofilms, increasing their volumes
The virus was viable for up to five days with and without an environmental biofilm on all surfaces tested. The incubation with SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant increased the biovolume of all three biofilms.
SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is electrically conductive, it reacts with gold and silicon 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.
The free fatty acid–binding pocket stabilizes SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in its locked conformation (the “Achilles’ heel of SARS-CoV-2”)
A free fatty acid–binding pocket (the “Achilles’ heel”) of the virus, which is a hallmark of pathogenic β-CoVs infection and replication, actually stabilizes the S protein in its locked conformation.
Immunity, Inflammation & Immune Dysregulation
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.
IgG4-related diseases (sialadenitis, pancreatitis, and hepatopathy) after COVID-19 vaccination
The authors from Japan presented two cases of immunoglobulin (Ig)G4-related diseases that developed after anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
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 ophthalmic disease after COVID-19 vaccination (case report)
The authors present a patient who developed the ocular manifestation of immunoglobulin (Ig)G4-related disease (IgG4-RD), referred to as IgG4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD), after the anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination with inactivated COVID-19 vaccine.
Differences in autoantibodies against receptors involved in autonomic regulation between individuals with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome and vaccinated healthy subjects
Two receptor antibodies (angiotensin II type 1 receptor antibodies and alpha-2B adrenergic receptor) and serum levels of IL-6/IL-8 can distinguish individuals with post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome from vaccinated individuals who did not develop post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome.
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.
De novo production of antinuclear antibodies was found in 29% of healthcare workers vaccinated with three doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines
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.
Chronic inflammation, persistent SARS-CoV-2 antigens, reactivation of latent herpes viruses, and reduced cortisol levels identified in post-COVID patients more than one year after the acute infection
Biological (immunological, virological and hormonal) features of post-COVID more than one year after acute infection.
Elevated 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.
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.
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.
Specific immune response to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein in individuals 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
Results revealed that a unique monocyte signature in long COVID breathless patients differed from that of patients with long COVID syndrome and persistent fatigue.
Immune signatures of adolescents diagnosed with myocarditis shortly after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination
The cytokinopathy and profibrotic myeloid cell response suggest cytokine-dependent pathology possibly associated with myeloid cell–associated cardiac fibrosis in myocarditis after mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
Repeated mRNA COVID-19 vaccination results in a class switch to noninflammatory spike protein-specific IgG4 antibodies
Repeated mRNA COVID-19 vaccination increased the level of noninflammatory S protein-specific IgG4 antibodies and IgG4-switched memory B cells five to seven months after the second mRNA immunization.
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.
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,
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Metformin reduces the viral load of SARS-CoV-2 and the incidence of long COVID syndrome
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.
A virologic rebound and a substantially prolongated shedding of replication-competent viruses were found in 21% of vaccinated COVID-19 outpatients treated with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir
Virologic rebound in C-19 treated with nirmatrelvir–ritonavir, associated with the shedding of replication-competent viruses.
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.