Severe COVID-19 Can Lead to Long-Term Changes in Immune System, Study Finds
A recent study funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) reveals that severe cases of COVID-19 can have lasting effects on the body’s innate immune system, which serves as the first line of defense against pathogens. The findings shed light on why COVID-19 is capable of causing damage to various organs and why individuals with long COVID often experience high levels of inflammation throughout their bodies.
To conduct the study, researchers analyzed blood samples from 38 individuals recovering from severe COVID-19, comparing them to samples taken from healthy individuals. Their investigation focused on immune cells and molecules within the samples. The researchers discovered significant changes in the genes of rare blood-forming stem cells, resulting in an increased production of immune cells known as monocytes in those recovering from severe COVID-19.
Moreover, these monocytes produced much higher amounts of inflammatory cytokines when compared to both healthy individuals and those suffering from other non-COVID-19 illnesses. Remarkably, these gene expression changes persisted for up to a year after the patients had recovered from COVID-19.
The researchers further explored a possible connection between these gene expression changes and the inflammatory cytokine IL-6. They tested their hypothesis by administering IL-6 blocking antibodies to mice and human subjects with COVID-19. The results were significant, as those who received the antibodies displayed lower levels of altered gene expression, reduced production of monocytes, and less organ damage.
The study’s findings provide crucial insights into the impact of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, on gene expression and the subsequent increased production of inflammatory cytokines. This revelation emphasizes the importance of remaining updated with recommended COVID-19 vaccines, as they have proven effective in protecting against severe illness, hospitalization, and even death.
The study, which appears in the journal Cell, highlights the urgency of understanding the long-term consequences of COVID-19 on the immune system. As scientists continue to uncover the intricacies of this novel virus, it becomes increasingly evident that preventative measures such as vaccination are essential in safeguarding public health. With ongoing research efforts, healthcare professionals can develop tailored treatments and interventions to mitigate the long-lasting impact of severe COVID-19.
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