New research from Emory University has found that autoantibodies in the nasal cavity can predict the severity of COVID-19 symptoms, with more than 70% of people with mild or moderate cases developing these antibodies. Surprisingly, these antibodies were linked to fewer symptoms, better antiviral immunity, and faster recovery. The presence of nasal autoantibodies appears to play a protective role by regulating the immune system and preventing excessive inflammation. The development of a new diagnostic tool called FlowBEAT allows for more efficient measurement of antibodies in the nasal cavities and could have implications for testing other respiratory viruses. Further research is needed to determine if this mechanism applies to other infections, potentially leading to new therapeutic options.
Source link
Study links nasal autoantibodies to COVID-19 severity prediction
