"SARS-CoV-2 Induces Senescence in Dopamine Neurons"

A study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 can infect dopamine neurons in the brain, leading to senescence, which may contribute to neurological symptoms associated with long COVID. The infected neurons stop functioning and trigger inflammation, potentially impacting feelings of pleasure, motivation, and movement. The research suggests that certain drugs may prevent the virus's attack on the brain, and long COVID patients should be monitored for an increased risk of developing Parkinson's-related symptoms. This study was a collaboration between Weill Cornell Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, and was supported by various grants from the National Institutes of Health.