Unraveling the Mystery of COVID-19's Brain Fog: Scientists Make Breakthrough Discovery

1 min read
Source: National Geographic
Unraveling the Mystery of COVID-19's Brain Fog: Scientists Make Breakthrough Discovery
Photo: National Geographic
TL;DR Summary

Scientists have discovered that the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread in neurons in the brain and accelerate the destruction of synapses, which are essential for communication between neurons. This may explain the neural and behavioral problems experienced by COVID-19 patients, including brain fog. Brain organoids, grown in the lab, have been used to study the effects of the virus on brain tissue. The excessive elimination of synapses observed in these organoids after infection may lead to memory loss and sluggish brain functions. Additionally, studies have shown that COVID-19 can cause brain shrinkage and activate hyperactive microglia, which may contribute to the increased risk of developing neurological or psychiatric conditions. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of COVID-19 on the brain.

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