A major German study found that SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the Covid-19 pandemic, remains in the brain’s protective layers, known as meninges, and bone marrow of the skull for up to four years after infection. This lingering presence of the spike protein leads to chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers discovered that the spike proteins accumulate in significant amounts in the brains of approximately 400 million individuals, potentially causing long Covid symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairment. However, vaccines have been shown to reduce the accumulation of spike protein by around 50% in mice, suggesting a potential protective effect.
The study employed an AI-powered imaging technique to visualize the distribution of spike proteins in tissue samples from Covid-19 patients and mice. The findings revealed elevated concentrations of spike protein in the bone marrow and meninges, even years after infection. This knowledge could provide insights into the long-term neurological effects of SARS-CoV-2 and inform strategies for mitigating these risks.
The researchers’ discovery highlights the need for continued study on the lingering presence of Covid-19 spike proteins in the brain and their potential impact on human health.
Source: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/covid-virus-remains-in-skull-for-years-after-infection-study-7140252