Title: Study Shows COVID-19 Virus Directly Infects Arteries, Contributing to Increased Cardiovascular Risks
A new study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has uncovered a concerning link between COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease. The research found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for causing COVID-19, can directly infect the arteries of the heart, leading to inflammation in fatty plaque. This discovery sheds light on why certain individuals who contract COVID-19 are at a higher risk of developing heart-related complications or experiencing heart attacks and strokes.
The study specifically focused on older individuals who had fatty buildup in their arteries, a condition known as atherosclerotic plaque. Researchers discovered that COVID-19 was capable of infecting and replicating within the arteries, regardless of plaque levels. This suggests that the implications of the virus’s impact on cardiovascular health extend beyond those with pre-existing conditions.
Macrophages, white blood cells responsible for eliminating the virus from the body, also play a role in clearing cholesterol from the arteries. However, the study uncovered that SARS-CoV-2 infects and impairs the function of macrophages and foam cells – a phenomenon that occurs when macrophages become overloaded with cholesterol. This compromised function hinders the body’s ability to rid itself of the virus effectively.
Moreover, the research team observed increased inflammation in the plaque after it was infected with the virus. This inflammation triggers the release of molecules that promote further plaque formation, which explains why COVID-19 patients with pre-existing plaque buildup face an increased risk of cardiovascular complications even after recovering from the infection.
It’s important to note that the study was conducted on a small group of older individuals with atherosclerosis and other underlying medical conditions. The findings solely pertain to the original strains of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in New York City from May 2020 to May 2021. Nevertheless, this research provides valuable insights into the intricate relationship between COVID-19 and cardiovascular health.
Funding for the study was provided by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) along with other NIH institutes. Researchers anticipate that their findings will contribute to a better understanding of COVID-19 and inform future research on both acute and Long COVID, thereby aiding in the development of tailored treatments and preventive measures.
As the world grapples with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, studies like these are vital in unraveling the complex web of the virus’s impact on the human body. With each breakthrough, we move one step closer to safeguarding the health and well-being of individuals affected by this relentless virus.
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