Breakthrough Study Identifies Brain Biomarkers Linked to Cognitive Issues in Long COVID Patients
New research identifies brain biomarkers associated with persistent cognitive problems in long COVID patients, paving the way for better diagnosis and personalized treatments.
Recent research has uncovered two key brain biomarkers that may explain the persistent cognitive problems experienced by long COVID sufferers. The study, conducted by researchers at Corewell Health, compared inflammation and brain stress responses between long COVID patients and individuals who recovered fully from COVID-19. Findings revealed that patients with ongoing 'brain fog' and cognitive difficulties exhibit lower levels of nerve growth factor—an indicator of the brain's capacity to form new neural connections—and higher levels of interleukin-10, a marker of inflammation.
While traditional neuropsychological tests showed minimal differences, long COVID patients scored significantly lower on verbal fluency tests, indicating challenges in language processing. Additionally, these patients reported lower quality of life, physical health, and emotional well-being.
The study involved 17 confirmed COVID-19 cases: 10 with long COVID and 7 fully recovered individuals. Results showed a correlation between increased brain inflammation markers and cognitive symptoms. The findings suggest that impaired stress response and inflammation in the brain could contribute to long-term cognitive issues.
Experts emphasize that, despite the small sample size, these results could improve early identification and tailored treatment for long COVID patients. They advocate for a multidisciplinary approach, including assessments of inflammatory and neuromarker profiles, as well as supportive therapies like speech therapy, psychotherapy, and targeted medications.
This research helps validate patients' experiences and highlights the need for comprehensive, personalized care strategies to address persistent neurological symptoms post-COVID. Future larger-scale studies are necessary to confirm these biomarkers' roles and develop effective interventions.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-scientists-brain-biomarkers-covid-cognitive.html
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