Long Covid inflicts scars on lungs but targeting immune cells may reverse damage

New research from the University of Virginia has developed a mouse model to study long COVID-19, revealing that targeting specific overactive immune cells can potentially reverse lung damage caused by the condition. Long COVID-19 affects millions globally, leading to significant respiratory issues. The study found that lung samples from long COVID-19 patients exhibited signs of an overactive immune response, particularly in areas that did not heal properly post-infection. Interestingly, mice infected with the influenza virus displayed lung damage characteristics similar to those seen in long COVID-19 patients, suggesting that the type of virus may be less important than the resulting lung damage. The researchers identified dysfunctional immune and structural cells in the lungs of the mice, which hindered repair and gas exchange. By blocking the activity of proteins linked to this overactive immune response, they were able to reduce lung scarring and restore lung function in the mice. This research is significant as it may lead to new treatment strategies for long COVID-19, utilizing existing FDA-approved drugs. Furthermore, it highlights the need for understanding the cellular and molecular similarities across various respiratory viral infections to better prepare for future outbreaks.

- A new mouse model has been developed to study long COVID-19 and its effects on lung health.

- Targeting overactive immune cells may reverse lung damage associated with long COVID-19.

- The study found that lung damage characteristics were similar in mice infected with influenza and long COVID-19 patients.

- Existing FDA-approved drugs could be repurposed to treat long COVID-19 symptoms.

- Understanding similarities among respiratory viral infections is crucial for future medical responses.