Research links dopamine changes and microbiome shifts to long COVID severity

Recent scientific studies are uncovering new biological mechanisms that may explain the persistent and diverse symptoms of long COVID.

Research conducted in Canada has identified distinct changes in the dopamine-producing nerve terminals of patients. These alterations in the brain's reward and motivation pathways may account for symptoms such as memory lapses, sluggish movement, and lack of motivation. Using advanced brain imaging, researchers observed that patients with the most severe symptoms showed the largest changes in these critical neurotransmitter pathways.

Simultaneously, a study involving over 700 participants through the PHOSP-COVID program in the United Kingdom has linked differences in the oral and airway microbiomes to the severity of long COVID. Researchers found that significant changes in the bacteria living in the mouth and lungs were associated not only with respiratory issues but also with broader symptoms, including brain fog and gastrointestinal problems.