SARS-CoV-2 spike protein causes synaptic dysfunction and p-tau and α-synuclein aggregation leading cognitive impairment: The protective role of metformin.

ABSTRACT: Patients recovering from post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) often experience cognitive dysfunction, including difficulties with focusing, conversation, or memory issues, which can persist for weeks or even months after infection. Although the persistence of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein has been reported in both the brain and serum, and is thought to potentially contribute to the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the brain, the underlying mechanisms leading to cognitive dysfunction remain unclear. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms by which the SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein (hereafter S1) induces cognitive impairment and explores the therapeutic potential of metformin in mitigating these effects. We demonstrate that intranasally administered S1 quickly entered the hip

SUBMITTER: Lee HK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12594341 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature