COVID-19 Spike Protein Linked to Autoimmune Brain Disorders

A recent study has found that pieces of the COVID-19 virus, specifically its spike protein, can stay in parts of the brain’s protective layers and the skull long after the initial infection.

These leftover spike proteins can trigger ongoing inflammation in the body, which might increase the risk of developing autoimmune disease.

The researchers discovered that these spike proteins could damage certain parts of the brain by disrupting proteins needed for brain health, like those that protect nerve fibers. This can make people more vulnerable to issues like brain fog, memory problems, and even diseases similar to multiple sclerosis. The study also suggests that even though vaccines help reduce the amount of spike protein, they don’t eliminate it entirely. This highlights the importance of continuing research to better understand and manage the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the immune system and brain health.

Citation:

Rong, Z., et al. (2024). Persistence of spike protein at the skull-meninges-brain axis may contribute to the neurological sequelae of COVID-19. Cell host & microbe, S1931-3128(24)00438-4. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2024.11.007