A Yale University study reveals that COVID-19 may cause amyloid beta protein buildup in the eyes and brain, similar to Alzheimer's. This protein accumulation, potentially linked to the virus's use of neuropilin-1 (NRP1) to enter cells, could explain COVID-19 'brain fog'. Researchers found that blocking NRP1 reduced amyloid beta buildup in retinal tissue exposed to the virus's spike protein. This suggests NRP1 inhibitors might treat COVID-19 neurological complications and offers insight into Alzheimer's, possibly indicating amyloid beta's role in brain immune response.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.