Abstract |
The global pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its threat to humans have drawn worldwide attention. The acute and long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the nervous system pose major public health challenges. Patients with SARS-CoV-2 present diverse symptoms of the central nervous system. Exploring the mechanism of coronavirus damage to the nervous system is essential for reducing the long-term neurological complications of COVID-19. Despite rapid progress in characterizing SARS-CoV-2, the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the brain remain unclear. The possible mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 injury to the central nervous system include: 1) direct injury of nerve cells, 2) activation of the immune system and inflammatory cytokines caused by systemic infection, 3) a high affinity of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein for the angiotensin-converting enzyme ACE2, 4) cerebrovascular disease caused by hypoxia and coagulation dysfunction, and 5) a systemic inflammatory response that promotes cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases. Although we do not fully understand the mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 causes nerve injury, we hope to provide a framework by reviewing the clinical manifestations, complications, and possible mechanisms of neurological damage caused by SARS-CoV-2. With hope, this will facilitate the early identification, diagnosis, and treatment of possible neurological sequelae, which could contribute toward improving patient prognosis and preventing transmission.
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Authors | Fan Yang, Hai Zhao, Hongtao Liu, Xiuying Wu, Yongnan Li |
Journal | Brain research bulletin
(Brain Res Bull)
Vol. 177
Pg. 155-163
(12 2021)
ISSN: 1873-2747 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 34571039
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
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Copyright | Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. |
Topics |
- COVID-19
(complications)
- Central Nervous System Diseases
(pathology, virology)
- Humans
- SARS-CoV-2
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