Researchers in the United States have discovered that the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus can numb pain, according to the journal Pain.
According to scientists, the effect of anesthesia occurs due to the combination of the S-protein, which ensures the penetration of coronavirus into human cells, with the ACE2 receptor and other substances.
Impaired signaling of pain signals occurs with the involvement of neuropilin-1 and VEGF-A, another protein that is a growth factor for vascular endothelium.
Thus, scientists have discovered a possible cause of the asymptomatic course of COVID-19, in which the sick person practically does not notice any deterioration in well-being. The researchers plan to study the properties of neuropilin-1 in more detail, as its properties may be useful for anesthesiologists.
Earlier, on October 5, the Rospotrebnadzor said that people with certain gene mutations cannot become infected with coronavirus infection. According to the department, some changes in genes can make it easier or more difficult for infection to enter the cells of the body.