Long COVID linked to persistently high levels of inflammatory protein: a potential biomarker and target for treatment

[Treeman]

A University of Cambridge-led study identifies the protein interferon gamma (IFN-γ) as a potential biomarker for Long COVID fatigue and highlights an immunological mechanism underlying the disease, which could pave the way for the development of much needed therapies, and provide a head start in the event of a future coronavirus pandemic.

https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news...nflammatory-protein-a-potential-biomarker-and

 

[Wishful]

A biomarker is supposed to be unique to the disease. IFN-y is produced from lots of causes, even physical exertion (24 hr delay).

 

[Treeman]

A biomarker is supposed to be unique to the disease. IFN-y is produced from lots of causes, even physical exertion (24 hr delay).

I understand it’s also an indicator for TB. But I considered that the finding of persistent inflammatory conditions and a known protein was good news.

 

[SWAlexander]

inflammatory conditions

As we know by now weakened T and B cells activate the unstoppable cytokines which are the inflammation producer. Here is another example:

Abstract​

Complement hyperactivation and thrombotic microangiopathy are closely associated with severe COVID-19. Endothelial dysfunction is a key mechanism underlying thrombotic microangiopathy. To address the relationship between endothelial injury, complement activation and thrombotic microangiopathy of severe COVID-19, we wonder whether, and if so, what and how SARS-CoV-2 factors make endothelial cells (ECs) sensitive to complement-mediated cytotoxicity. We revealed that multiple SARS-CoV-2 proteins enhanced complement-mediated cytotoxicity to ECs via inhibiting membrane complement regulatory proteins (CRPs) and enhancing the deposition of complement recognizing component FCN1. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/22221751.2025.2467781#abstract

 

[Blazer95]

to throw this in again and again: serum amyloid a is also an inflammation marker more sensitive than CRP. its constantly elevated since i got ME.

many doctors still dont know about this despite its usage in veterinary medicine for decades.

 

[SWAlexander]

many doctors still dont know about

You're right and I'm not surprised. Last Thursday, I met a new PCP, who admitted he never ordered tests beyond CRP and had no knowledge of Lupus or APS.