The effects of COVID-19 on the human body have been a subject of intense study since the pandemic's emergence. As the virus has mutated, giving rise to various strains, understanding how these different strains impact the body has become crucial. An IIT Indore study, in collaboration with other Indian institutions, published in the Journal of Proteome Research, has shed light on how different COVID-19 variants affect the human body and lead to varying levels of disease severity.
The IIT Indore-led research, spearheaded by Dr. Hem Chandra Jha, involved a multi-faceted approach, combining clinical data analysis and laboratory experiments. Researchers analyzed clinical data from 3,134 COVID-19 patients from the first and second waves in India, employing machine learning to pinpoint nine critical parameters linked to disease severity. These parameters include C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, ferritin, neutrophils, white blood cell (WBC) count, lymphocytes, urea, creatine, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). This data-driven approach allowed them to identify patterns and correlations between specific biomarkers and the severity of COVID-19 infections.
In addition to analyzing patient data, the researchers conducted experiments on lung and colon cells, exposing them to different spike proteins from various virus variants. Notably, the Delta variant caused the most significant disruptions in the body's chemical balance. It affected pathways related to catecholamine and thyroid hormone production, potentially leading to complications such as silent heart failure and thyroid dysfunction.
The study's findings underscore the importance of understanding the molecular-level impact of COVID-19 for developing better healthcare responses and targeted treatments. Dr. Jha emphasized that their research reveals how different COVID-19 variants influence the body in unique ways, particularly the Delta variant, which caused major disruptions in metabolic and hormonal pathways. This knowledge could pave the way for more precise diagnostics and therapies to manage long COVID symptoms more effectively.
While the IIT Indore study provides valuable insights into the differential impacts of COVID-19 strains, it's important to consider how the virus, in general, affects the body. COVID-19's impact can vary depending on the severity of the infection (mild, moderate, or severe) and the individual's immune response.
Generally, current COVID-19 variants, such as NB.1.8.1 and the JN.1 subvariants, often present with symptoms similar to previous strains, including respiratory issues like cough and sore throat, as well as systemic effects like fever and fatigue. Some clinicians have reported diarrhea or headaches as early symptoms of JN.1 infection. Loss of taste or smell, which was common in earlier variants, is less frequently reported now.
More broadly, severe COVID-19 infections can lead to long-term health issues affecting various organ systems. The lungs are particularly vulnerable, with severe infections potentially causing pneumonia, requiring oxygen support or ventilation. COVID-19 can also increase the risk of blood clots, which can cause complications in the lungs, heart, or brain. Some individuals may experience digestive issues, such as diarrhea, lack of appetite, or stomach pain. Chronic fatigue is another common long-term effect. In some instances, COVID-19 can cause heart problems, liver damage and kidney damage. There is also evidence that the virus can enter the brain and cause neurological damage.
Given the continuous evolution of the virus, preventive measures remain crucial. Health professionals advise that good hygiene practices like hand washing, staying home when sick, and wearing masks in crowded areas can help prevent the spread of infection. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations is also recommended.
