A study by German researchers has shown that SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, persists in the skull and meninges (three layers of tissue that protect and defend the brain and spinal cord) for years after infection. supports). ,

The findings, published in the journal Cell Host & Microbe, highlight the long-term impact of the virus on brain health.

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) found that the spike protein of the virus persists in the protective layers of the brain, the meninges, and the bone marrow of the skull for up to four years. These proteins are known to trigger chronic inflammation, significantly increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Professor Ali Ertark, director of the Helmholtz Institute for Intelligent Biotechnologies in Munich, said the long-term neurological effects of the virus could “accelerate brain aging”, potentially resulting in a loss of five to 10 years of healthy brain function. Is.

The study also highlights neurological symptoms of long-term Covid, such as headaches, sleep disturbances and cognitive impairment such as “brain fog”.

An estimated 5-10% of Covid patients, about 400 million people worldwide, may be affected by Long Covid, which involves spike proteins that perpetuate inflammation.

Vaccines and new imaging techniques

The researchers said the vaccines play an important role in reducing the accumulation of the spike protein in the brain, although they only cut levels by about 50% in animal studies. Residual protein may still pose toxic risks.

To uncover these findings, the team used a novel AI-powered imaging technique that provides a three-dimensional view of viral proteins. This method enabled the detection of spike proteins in areas previously thought to be unaffected, such as the bone marrow and meninges of the skull.

The spike protein binds to ACE2 receptors, which are abundant in these areas, which explains its persistence. The finding underlines the importance of continued research on the long-term effects of COVID-19 and highlights the need for preventive measures such as vaccination to reduce the risks.

The study raises serious questions about the management of the neurological effects of the virus, especially for patients suffering from long-term Covid.