Covid-19 can affect the blood-brain barrier

Although the coronavirus does not affect nerve cells, Covid-19 disease can affect brain functions. Researchers from the University and University Hospital of Basel have now identified an “overshooting immune response” as the cause.

Known long-term neuronal damage from Covid 19 infection is loss of sense of smell and taste or even more serious consequences such as persistent lack of concentration and strokes, the University of Basel announced on Monday. Researchers led by Gregor Hutter of the Department of Biomedicine have now published new findings on these “Neuro-Covid” phenomena in the journal “Nature Communications”.

The study included 40 Covid-19 patients with varying degrees of neurological symptoms. Their cerebrospinal fluid and blood plasma were examined. In addition, brain structures were measured.

According to the communiqué, a link was made with an “overshooting immune response”. On the one hand, this resulted in an impairment of the blood-brain barrier. The researchers now suspect that autoantibodies have entered the brain through the perforated barrier and caused damage there.

In addition, changes in brain structures were found, it said. Those with severe symptoms had lower volume in specific areas of the brain compared to healthy subjects. The olfactory center, that is, the olfactory region, was particularly affected.

Based on the findings of the study, the Basel researchers now conclude that ways must be found to detect the “overshooting immune response” early and slow it down with medication. The goal would be a blood test that could predict severe progression and long-term damage from the start of an infection. This means that drugs can be targeted early and specifically at the now discovered attack points. (aeg/sda)