Neuroinflammatory and transcriptional dynamics during SARS-CoV-2 infection in KRT18-hACE2 mouse brain.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Neurological complications are increasingly recognized as a significant consequence of COVID-19; however, time-resolved, brain-specific characterization of transcriptional alterations underlying SARS-CoV-2-associated neuroinflammation and neuronal injury remain limited. We hypothesized that brain transcriptional responses evolve dynamically during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, resulting in temporal transcriptional programs.

Methods

KRT18-hACE2 transgenic mice were intranasally inoculated with SARS-CoV-2. Brain was harvested at 4 and 6 days post-infection (dpi) for analyses.

Results

Immunohistochemical analyses confirmed a broad spectrum of viral neurotropism and gliotropism, accompanied by an increased apoptotic burden, particularly in cortical neurons (ClC

SUBMITTER: Ahn DG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12907350 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature