Low-Grade Inflammation in Long COVID Syndrome Sustains a Persistent Platelet Activation Associated With Lung Impairment
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: In the present study, we provide evidence on the potential mechanisms involved in the residual pulmonary impairment described in long COVID syndrome. Data highlight that lung damage is significantly associated with a proinflammatory platelet phenotype, characterized mainly by the formation of platelet-leukocyte aggregates. In ex vivo experiments, long COVID plasma reproduces the platelet activation observed in vivo and highlights low-grade inflammation as a potential underpinning mechanism, exploiting a synergistic activity between C-reactive protein and subthreshold concentrations of interleukin-6. The platelet-activated phenotype is blunted by anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet drugs, suggesting a potential therapeutic option in this clinical setting.
Authors: Marta Brambilla, Federica Fumoso, Maria Conti, Alessia Becchetti, Silvia Bozzi, Tatiana Mencarini, Piergiuseppe Agostoni, Maria E. Mancini, Nicola Cosentino, Alice Bonomi, Kevin Nallio, Arianna Galotta, Martino Pengo, Elena Tortorici, Miriam Bosco, Franco Cernigliaro, Chistian Pinna, Daniele Andreini, Marina Camera
Language: English
Subfield: Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,650
Funder: Ministero della Salute
OpenAlex ID: W4404790016