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Study: Novel coronavirus may enter brain via nose

Study: Novel coronavirus may enter brain via nose

The researchers said that they found the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, the genetic material of the virus, and protein in the brain and nasopharynx, adding intact virus particles were also detected in the nasopharynx. The highest levels of viral RNA were found in the olfactory mucous membrane, they said.

According to the researchers, the disease duration was inversely correlated with the amount of detectable virus, indicating that higher SARS-CoV-2 RNA levels were found in cases with shorter disease duration.

The team also found SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in certain types of cells within the olfactory mucous layer, where it may exploit the proximity of endothelial and nervous tissue to gain entry to the brain.

In some patients, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was found in cells expressing markers of neurons, suggesting that olfactory sensory neurons may be infected, as well as in the brain areas that receive smell and taste signals, the researchers said.

SARS-CoV-2 was also found in other areas of the nervous system, including the medulla oblongata - the primary respiratory and cardiovascular control centre of the brain, they said.

The researchers noted that further COVID-19 autopsy studies that include a broad range of sampling are needed to identify the precise mechanisms that mediate the virus's entry into the brain, and examine other potential ports of entry.

Source: timesnownews

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