Beyond acute infection: mechanisms underlying post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC)

<p>Immune dysregulation is a key aspect of post-acute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (PASC), also known as long COVID, with sustained activation of immune cells, T cell exhaustion, skewed B cell profiles, and disrupted immune communication thereby resulting in autoimmune-related complications. </p> <p>The gut is emerging as a critical link between microbiota, metabolism and overall dysfunction, potentially sharing similarities with other chronic fatigue conditions and PASC. </p> <p>Immunothrombosis and neurological signalling dysfunction emphasise the complex interplay between the immune system, blood clotting, and the central nervous system in the context of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. </p> <p>Clear research gaps in the design of PASC studies, especially in the context of longitudinal research, stand out as significant areas of concern.</p>