Date of Completion

Spring 5-1-2024

Thesis Advisor(s)

Pallavi Limaye, John Cooley, Thomas Abbott

Honors Major

Molecular and Cell Biology

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended the world in the last few years, bringing with it countless varying physiological effects, some of which extend beyond the acute phase of the infection. Long-term COVID-19, also referred to as "chronic" or “long-haul” COVID, has become an increasingly prevalent health issue in recent years. Long term sensory loss, particularly anosmia and ageusia (loss of smell and taste respectively), are among the biggest concerns to patients suffering from this condition due to the considerable detriment to their quality of life. This literature review aims to provide an overview of the molecular mechanisms associated with sensory loss among individuals with long-term COVID-19. It also discusses the complex interactions between viral infection, immune response, and neuronal damage. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms is crucial for the development of effective treatment in the future, to ultimately improve the quality of life for COVID-19 survivors.

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