The α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor: a Key Molecule in Post-COVID Syndrome?

2023 · doi:10.32388/dta98l
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Abstract

Post Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) appears with a considerable delay after recovery from the acute phase and lasts for months or even years. It includes injuries of multiple organs, as well as cognitive impairment, fatigue, disordered sleep and memory loss. In spite of substantial efforts undertaken to understand the nature of this pathology the mechanisms of its development remain unclear and no efficient treatment has been suggested. The present review provides evidence indicating the important role of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in COVID19 pathogenesis and PASC development and suggests the involvement of immune mechanisms stimulated by SARS-Cov-2 S-protein fragment 674-685 possessing homology with α7-specific ligands. It is hypothesized that delayed PASC symptoms can be stimulated by α7-specific antibodies of anti-idiotypic origin; consequently, the therapeutic approaches to cure or prevent PASC development should include measures to both neutralize such antibodies and additionally stimulate α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
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License: CC-BY-4.0