Health

Protein Linked to Fatigue In Long Covid, Alzheimer’s, And Other Diseases

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the cause of fatigue in patients with long Covid, Alzheimer’s, and other diseases. Led by Associate Professor Aaron Johnson, the team identified a specific protein that travels from the brain to muscles, leading to muscle dysfunction and reduced energy levels.

Also Read: Cambridge Researchers Develop AI Tool To Predict Early Dementia Progression

The study, published in Science Immunology, used fruit flies and mice to model three different diseases: E. coli bacterial infection, SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, and Alzheimer’s. The researchers found that brain inflammation triggers the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), which travels through the bloodstream and reduces energy production in muscle mitochondria.

Notably, the team discovered that IL-6 activates the JAK-STAT pathway in muscle, leading to reduced energy production. Fortunately, several FDA-approved therapeutics can block this pathway, offering potential treatment options for muscle wasting caused by bacterial infections, Alzheimer’s disease, and long Covid.

This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the mysterious connection between brain inflammation and muscle fatigue, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies to address these debilitating symptoms.

Richa Kaushik

Recent Posts

India Tightens Stance On Pakistan Following Pahalgam Terror Attack

The Indian government has announced a series of decisive measures aimed at scaling down diplomatic…

7 mins ago

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Calls For India To Project Strength; Describes Battle As ‘Dharma vs Adharma’ After Pahalgam Terror Attack

After the Pahalgam terror attack, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stressed India's need to project strength…

20 mins ago

Indian Markets Open Higher Due To Global Optimism

Indian equity markets kicked off Friday’s session on a strong note, driven by upbeat global…

1 hour ago

President Murmu Departs For Vatican To Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral

President Droupadi Murmu departed for the Vatican City on Friday to attend the state funeral…

2 hours ago

The Health Benefits Of Eating Pineapple: A Tropical Superfruit

Pineapple, with its juicy sweetness and vibrant tropical flavour, offers more than just a refreshing…

4 hours ago

India Suspends Indus Waters Treaty Following Rising Tensions With Pakistan

The Indian government has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty with immediate effect, citing…

4 hours ago