A study conducted by scientists from Stony Brook University has revealed an interesting connection between long-term neurological symptoms of COVID-19 and elevated levels of tau protein in the blood, which may indicate risks associated with neurodegenerative diseases. The results of the study were published in the scientific journal eBioMedicine, as reported by Lenta.ru.
As part of the study, information was analyzed from 227 patients who had contracted COVID-19 and were suffering from symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and loss of smell. It was found that the level of the pathological form of tau protein (pTau-181) in these individuals was on average 59% higher compared to measurements taken before the infection. In the control group, consisting of individuals without long-term COVID symptoms, no such changes were recorded.
The most significant increase in tau protein levels was observed in those participants whose symptoms persisted for more than a year and a half. The authors of the study emphasize that the presence of elevated tau protein levels does not mean the inevitable development of Alzheimer's disease; however, it may indicate long-term changes in brain function following the infection.
The necessity for further studies and neuroimaging analyses is highlighted for a deeper understanding of the relationship between elevated tau protein levels and the risk of cognitive decline in the future. Despite this, the findings raise concerns that the consequences of COVID-19 may affect the brain for several years after recovery.
