Long COVID and the Looming Alzheimer’s Connection: What Does the Future Hold?
A groundbreaking study from NYU Langone Health has revealed a potential link between long COVID and early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, sparking concern and prompting further research. The findings, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, suggest that lingering symptoms following a COVID-19 infection may be associated with structural changes in the brain that mirror those seen in the early stages of cognitive decline.
The Choroid Plexus: A Key Player in Brain Health
The study centers on the choroid plexus (ChP), a network of blood vessels within the brain responsible for producing cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid cushions the brain and removes waste products. Researchers discovered that individuals experiencing long COVID symptoms had a 10 percent larger ChP compared to those who fully recovered from COVID-19 or never contracted the virus. This enlargement correlated with higher levels of blood markers associated with Alzheimer’s disease, such as pTau217, and markers indicating brain injury, like Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP).
Inflammation and Vascular Remodeling: The Proposed Mechanism
The research team believes the enlargement of the ChP is linked to inflammation triggered by the initial COVID-19 infection. This inflammation may lead to “vascular remodeling,” where the layers of cells lining blood vessels thicken. This process, combined with scar tissue buildup, can reduce blood flow to the ChP, potentially impairing its ability to clear waste and maintain the integrity of the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier. Reduced cerebral blood flow was observed in long COVID patients during the study.
Cognitive Impact: Early Warning Signs?
Patients with larger ChPs similarly performed, on average, 2 percent worse on the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), a standard cognitive assessment tool. Whereas a 2 percent difference may seem small, researchers suggest it could be an early indicator of future cognitive decline. “Our work suggests that long-term immune reactions caused in some cases after an initial COVID infection may come with swelling that damages a critical brain barrier in the choroid plexus,” explained Yulin Ge, MD, a professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.
Beyond the Study: Emerging Research and Future Directions
This NYU study builds on a growing body of evidence linking COVID-19 to neurological complications. A separate study published in the European Heart Journal in August 2025 indicated that COVID-19 infection may accelerate blood vessel aging by up to five years, with women being more affected than men. Researchers are now focused on longitudinal studies to determine whether the observed brain changes in long COVID patients are predictive of long-term cognitive impairment.
The next phase of research will involve tracking patients over time to assess whether the identified brain changes correlate with the development of dementia or Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. Larger, long-term studies are also needed to clarify whether these ChP alterations are a cause or a consequence of neurological symptoms, which will help refine treatment strategies.
Pro Tip:
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, including brain fog or cognitive difficulties, consult with a healthcare professional. Early detection and management of potential neurological complications are crucial.
FAQ
Q: What is long COVID?
A: Long COVID refers to symptoms that persist for weeks or months after the initial COVID-19 infection has resolved.
Q: What is the choroid plexus?
A: The choroid plexus is a network of blood vessels in the brain that produces cerebrospinal fluid, which cushions the brain and removes waste.
Q: Is long COVID a direct cause of Alzheimer’s disease?
A: The study suggests a potential link, but more research is needed to determine whether long COVID directly causes Alzheimer’s disease or increases the risk of developing it.
Q: What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease?
A: Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language, and changes in mood or behavior.
Q: What can be done to mitigate the risk?
A: While more research is needed, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and cognitive stimulation, may help protect brain health.
Did you know? The brain’s waste clearance system is crucial for preventing the buildup of harmful proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
Explore Further: Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and related research at the Alzheimer’s Association website.
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