A study by Cedars-Sinai’s Smidt Heart Institute suggests that immune system dysfunction may be a factor in long COVID-19. Researchers found that individuals with long COVID-19 produced antibodies against the virus for an extended period post-vaccination, particularly elevated levels of nucleocapsid antibodies, which are associated with the virus’s replication. The study, published in BMC Infectious Diseases, analyzed blood samples from 245 long COVID-19 patients and 86 fully recovered individuals. While antibody levels typically decline after vaccination, those with long COVID-19 maintained high levels, especially of nucleocapsid antibodies. This points to an atypical immune response that might contribute to the persistence of symptoms, which can include fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and shortness of breath. The researchers, led by Dr. Catherine Le, aim to identify a reliable biomarker for diagnosing long COVID-19 and understanding its underlying biological processes. While the findings indicate an enhanced immune response might offer some protection, more investigation is needed to determine how it relates to the severity and number of symptoms experienced. The study was supported by multiple organizations, including the Erika J. Glazer Family Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.
