After the virus has cleared-Can preclinical models be employed for Long COVID research?

Ethan B Jansen ^1,2, Spencer N Orvold ³, Cynthia L Swan ¹

⁰Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization VIDO, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.

Plos Pathogens +

|

September 7, 2022

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Animal models are crucial for understanding Long COVID, a persistent condition after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Research highlights their use in studying mechanisms and evaluating treatments for post-COVID conditions.

Area Of Science

Infectious Diseases
Immunology
Pathology

Background

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) causes COVID-19 and can lead to Long COVID (Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 or PASC).
Long COVID presents with diverse symptoms like fatigue, dyspnea, and cognitive issues, affecting a significant portion of survivors.
Mechanisms and effective treatments for Long COVID remain largely unknown.

Purpose Of The Study

To review animal models used to study SARS-CoV-2 infection and its long-term effects.
To explore how these models can elucidate Long COVID mechanisms and aid in therapeutic development.

Main Methods

Review of studies on animal models including mice, hamsters, ferrets, and nonhuman primates (NHPs) infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Analysis of virology, pathology, immune responses, and multiorgan involvement in these models.
Highlighting studies examining disease characteristics beyond 14 days post-infection.

Main Results

Animal models offer insights into the multifaceted pathology of acute and persistent COVID-19.
Specific models demonstrate potential for studying long-term sequelae, including multiorgan dysfunction.
These preclinical systems can mimic aspects of human Long COVID, facilitating research.

Conclusions

Animal models are essential for understanding the underlying mechanisms of Long COVID.
Preclinical models provide a platform for evaluating the efficacy of potential Long COVID therapeutics.
Establishing validated Long COVID models is critical for advancing treatment strategies.