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Serum proteomic profiling identifies transforming growth factor β receptor as a marker of persistent symptoms up to 18 months after mild SARS-CoV-2 infection

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Persistent symptoms following the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection have emerged as an increasing health problem. The pathogenesis for the development of post-COVID Condition (PCC) is still elusive. Herein we included serum samples from non-hospitalized (n = 189) and hospitalized (n = 52) COVID-19 patients, representing approximately 90% of all patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in the municipality of Bergen, Norway between 28 February and 4 April 2020. The patients were followed clinically with systematic interviews for up to 18 months. Accompanying serum samples were analyzed by un-targeted proteomics and enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Our major findings were: (i) In a subpopulation of the total cohort (n = 69) proteome analyses identified 28 proteins that were dysregulated in individuals with mild and moderate PCC. Pathway analyses suggested the involvement of cell adhesion, extracellular matrix remodeling and immunity. (ii) The most significant finding were elevated serum levels of transforming growth factor β receptor 2 (TGFBR2) that were significantly higher in those with moderate as compared with those with mild and those without any PCC symptoms. (iii) This finding was conformed in the total cohort as assessed by EIA. (iv) The strongest association for TGFBR2 was found for impaired cognition that was seen at both 6, 12 and 18 months after infection. (v) In contrast to the home-isolated patients, no association of TGFBR2 to PCC symptoms were seen for those that were hospitalized during the acute infection. Our finding may indicate the involvement of TGFBR2 related pathways in the pathogenesis of PCC, in particular in those with cognitive symptoms.

Source: Brain Behavior & Immunity - Health

DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2026.101396