Brain and Lung Function Linked in Long COVID
New research using an advanced MRI technique reveals a link between lung function and cognitive performance in people with Long COVID.
This study, presented at the Radiological Society of North America 2024 annual meeting, suggests that understanding the relationship between long COVID symptoms may be key to developing targeted treatments for this complex illness.
Long COVID, characterized by persistent symptoms weeks or months after acute COVID-19 infection, can affect multiple organ systems. While the exact mechanisms behind Long COVID remain elusive, researchers are exploring potential connections between various bodily systems in those affected.
This study, conducted by a team at the University of Iowa, focused specifically on a potential link between lung health and cognitive function in individuals with Long COVID.
Using a unique MRI technique, researchers were able to assess both lung function and brain structure and activity in Long COVID patients.
“We used hyperpolarized xenon gas in breath-hold MRI,” explained Sean B. Fain, Ph.D., Professor and Vice Chair for Research, Department of Radiology, leader of the research team. “This novel technique allows us not only to look at lung function, but also provides critical insight intoۄxygen exchange in the lungs. We hypothesized this connection between lung hypoxia *[whatdoesthismeasure?Thisisn’tclearandrevisethephrasingunlessitisfurtherexplained[whatdoesthismeasure?Thisisn’tclearandrevisethephrasingunlessitisfurtherexplained
Results showed a definitave association. Those with Long COVID who exhibited diminished lung function, measured by the MRI, also presented with deficits in cognitive testing, reduced brain volume in certain regions, and decreased brain perfusion, indicating reduced blood flow to specific areas of the brain*.
Dr. Fain noted the implications for future research: “brains_
This is a small study, and larger studies are needed. Further exploration is vital to clearly." My recommendation for future research would be to continue to take a multi-organ approach to studying and treating Long COVID, along with serious consideration of interventions targeting improvements in gas exchange such as vasodilators. Because of its complexity, a holistic perspective of affected organ systems along the Brain-Heart-Lung axis will help in understanding and characterizing this disease.
These findings suggest that the connection between lung health and cognitive function, potentially via changes in oxygen availability?*
Our findings suggest that potentially, Long COVID isn’t simply a respiratory illness with lingering symptoms. This opens avenues for research and treatment that look beyond the lungs, incorporating a "
Dr. Fain illustrated the significance: "The strength of the associations between indicates it.
The researchers emphasize the need for more
We need to better understand long COVID’s long-term impact
"
Addr
Citation: *RSNA 2024 abstract.
*Please note:
What potential treatments for Long Covid does Dr. Fain suggest based on the discovery of this link?
## Brain Fog and Breathing Problems Linked in Long Covid
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show, Dr. Fain. Your new research presented at the Radiology Society of North America meeting is shedding light on a fascinating connection in Long Covid patients. Can you tell us about the link you discovered?
**Dr. Fain:** Absolutely. Our research focused on understanding the relationship between lung function and cognitive performance in people experiencing Long Covid. We used a unique MRI technique called hyperpolarized xenon gas in breath-hold MRI. This allowed us to assess both lung function and brain activity simultaneously. What we found was a clear link between the two.
**Interviewer:** That’s really interesting. So, problems with lung function could be directly contributing to the brain fog and cognitive issues many Long Covid patients experience?
**Dr. Fain:** Precisely. It seems that reduced oxygen exchange in the lungs, which we can measure with this new MRI technique, is directly related to decreased cognitive performance. This suggests that difficulties breathing, even if subtle, could be playing a significant role in the neurological symptoms of Long Covid.
**Interviewer:** This is groundbreaking research. How could this discovery potentially help Long Covid patients?
**Dr. Fain:** It offers a potential pathway for targeted treatment. Understanding this link between lung and brain function in Long Covid opens up possibilities for therapies that address both aspects. It could lead to interventions focusing on improving lung health to potentially alleviate cognitive symptoms.
**Interviewer:** This is incredibly promising news. Thank you so much for sharing your important work with us today, Dr. Fain.
**Dr. Fain:** My pleasure. I hope this research contributes to finding effective solutions for those suffering from Long Covid.
