Japanese scientists have identified a biological cause for the brain fog associated with long-term COVID-19. Research findings confirm that brain fog is a measurable biological condition and point to new therapeutic targets. This may open the way to effective diagnosis and therapy.
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As reported by “Science Daily”, scientists from Yokohama City University used advanced PET brain imaging techniques. Thanks to this, they discovered a widespread increase in AMPA receptor density, which is associated with cognitive impairment and inflammation.
Long COVID affects millions of people around the world, causing chronic health problems, including “brain fog” that makes everyday functioning difficult. “Brain fog” is a non-medical term used to describe symptoms such as confusion, forgetfulness, inability to focus, communication problems
Previous research has not provided clear evidence of the biological causes of this condition. The discovery by scientists from Japan may be crucial for better understanding the mechanisms of the disease and developing effective therapies.
A breakthrough in research. Scientists have discovered the cause of brain fog after COVID-19
As Science Daily explains, the research team used a novel PET imaging technique to examine the activity of AMPA receptors in the brains of patients with long COVID. By comparing 30 people with this condition with 80 healthy volunteers, they found a significant increase in the density of AMPA receptors in patients. Importantly, the severity of changes correlated with the severity of cognitive symptoms.
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“By using our newly developed AMPA receptor PET imaging technology, we aim to provide a new perspective and innovative solutions to the urgent medical challenge of long COVID,” said the head of the research team, Prof. Takahashi, whose words are quoted by Science Daily.
“Our findings clearly demonstrate that long COVID brain fog should be recognized as a legitimate clinical condition. This may encourage the healthcare industry to accelerate the development of diagnostic and therapeutic methods for this disorder,” added Prof. Takahashi.
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As Science Daily explains, the study opens the door to the development of new therapies that could moderate the function of AMPA receptors and reduce the symptoms of “brain fog.” Moreover, PET imaging technology can be used to precisely diagnose long COVID, which is crucial for effective treatment.
These results may also contribute to the recognition of brain fog as a significant health problem requiring greater attention from health care systems.
