Discovery of Brain Biomarkers Linked to Cognitive Dysfunction in Long COVID Patients

Fri 16th May, 2025

A recent study has identified two significant brain biomarkers in individuals suffering from long COVID, shedding light on the cognitive difficulties experienced by some patients. The research, which contrasts the inflammatory and stress response levels between long COVID sufferers and those who have fully recovered, reveals that persistent brain fog and cognitive challenges may be linked to heightened brain inflammation and reduced adaptability to stress.

This groundbreaking study marks a pivotal advancement in understanding the neurological impacts of COVID-19, particularly in patients exhibiting prolonged symptoms. While earlier research has indicated alterations in these biomarkers in animal models, this study uniquely addresses the human experience by analyzing data from documented COVID-positive individuals.

Worldwide, millions of individuals are still grappling with the aftereffects of COVID-19, with many experiencing lingering cognitive symptoms years post-infection. The lead researcher emphasized the importance of this study, stating that it validates the real and often frustrating experiences of patients suffering from long COVID.

The pilot study, published in the journal PLOS One, involved a comparative analysis of 17 individuals--10 with long COVID and 7 who had fully recovered without any lingering effects. Key findings include:

  • Lower serum levels of nerve growth factor in long COVID patients, indicating a reduced capacity for the brain to adapt and form new connections.
  • Increased levels of interleukin-10, a biomarker associated with inflammation, in the long COVID group.
  • While overall neuropsychological test results showed little difference, long COVID participants exhibited significantly lower performance in letter fluency tasks, suggesting challenges in accessing language centers within the brain.
  • Long COVID patients reported poorer quality of life and lower scores in physical health, emotional functioning, and psychological well-being compared to the control group.

Despite the study's small sample size, the implications for clinical practice are substantial. The authors suggest that recognizing these biomarkers may allow healthcare professionals to identify patients who need additional support more promptly, leading to more comprehensive care approaches.

Physicians often face challenges in diagnosing long COVID due to the discrepancies between patients' reported difficulties and their performance on standard diagnostic tests, which may appear normal. This disconnect can lead to significant frustration for patients, whose symptoms are frequently downplayed by those around them, including family and healthcare providers.

To address these challenges, the researchers advocate for a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses the assessment of inflammatory and brain biomarkers. They propose that integrating services such as speech therapy, psychotherapy for stress management, and targeted medications could greatly enhance treatment strategies for long COVID patients.

With further research warranted, this study lays the groundwork for deeper investigations into the complex relationships between COVID-19, brain health, and cognitive function.


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