Unexpected Link Between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's Disease Revealed

Researchers from Stony Brook University conducted an analysis of data from 227 patients who had contracted COVID-19 and were suffering from neurological symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, as well as disturbances in smell and balance. Their findings were published in the journal eBioMedicine and reported by Lenta.ru. The study revealed an elevated level of tau protein in these individuals, which is a marker for neurodegenerative diseases. The blood of the participants showed an average increase of 59 percent in the pathological form of tau protein (pTau-181) compared to pre-infection levels. No such changes were observed in the control group, which consisted of individuals without long COVID and neurological symptoms.

The most noticeable increase in tau protein levels was noted in those who had been suffering from symptoms for more than a year and a half. Although the authors of the study emphasize that this is not a direct indication of the inevitable development of Alzheimer's disease, it may suggest long-term changes in brain function following the infection.

Scientists also note that additional neuroimaging studies and observations are necessary for a deeper understanding of the relationship between elevated tau protein and the potential risk of cognitive decline in the future. Nevertheless, the results of the study heighten concerns that the consequences of COVID-19 may affect the brain even years after the illness has passed.