Welcome to the Holistic Wellness Center of the Carolinas – Research Based Functional Wellness

SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19. The spike protein on the surface of the virus is responsible for binding to a receptor called ACE2 on human cells, allowing the virus to enter and infect the cell. Research has shown that the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 can also cross-react with other proteins in the body, which may contribute to the wide range of symptoms when exposed to the spike protein.

One area of research is the potential cross-reaction between the spike protein and other receptors in the body, such as those found on the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that the spike protein can bind to receptors on platelets and blood vessels, which may contribute to the increased risk of blood clots and strokes seen in some COVID-19 patients. Additionally, the spike protein may bind to receptors on the heart and cause inflammation, leading to increased risk of heart attack and heart failure.

Another area of research is the potential cross-reaction between the spike protein and the immune system. The spike protein may stimulate an immune response that leads to inflammation and damage to healthy tissue, which may contribute to the wide range of symptoms seen in patients. Some studies have suggested that the spike protein may cross-react with other proteins in the body, such as those found in the nervous system and in organs like the liver and kidneys, nerves, thyroid, cardiolipin, beta 2 glycoproteins (both of which are linked to autoimmune induced infertility)

It is important to note that the research on the cross-reaction of the spike protein is ongoing and the mechanisms of action are not fully understood yet. Further research is needed to fully understand how the spike protein cross-reacts with tissues in the body.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32461193/