Uncovering the molecular interactions between fibrin and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, researchers pave the way for targeted therapies that could curb the devastating effects of long COVID. Fibrin drives thromboinflammation and neuropathology in COVID-19 . Image Credit: Juan Gaertner / Shutterstock In a recent study published in the journal Nature , a large team of researchers in the United States provided evidence that fibrin plays a pivotal role in driving thromboinflammation (the harmful interaction between clotting and inflammation) and neuropathology in Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
They also explored the potential of fibrin-targeting immunotherapy as a treatment for both acute COVID-19 and long COVID-19. Background Long COVID has become a significant public health concern, with coagulation and neurological complications arising during acute infection and persisting into the post-acute phase, contributing to morbidity and mortality. These issues affect patients across all age groups, including those with mild or breakthrough infections.
Persistent and resistant blood clots, despite adequate anticoagulation, suggest underlying mechanisms that are not yet fully understood. The interaction between hypercoagulability, immune response, and neurological complications in COVID-19 highlights the need for further research to uncover the precise mechanisms driving these complications and to develop effective treatments. About the study C57BL/6 and K18-hACE2 mice were utiliz.