Unraveling Long COVID Pathogenesis: Insights Gained and Frontiers Ahead

Over the past five years, a constellation of persistent or emergent symptoms following the acquisition of SARS-CoV-2, commonly referred to as Long COVID, has crystallized into a novel and pressing medical conundrum. Notwithstanding the affliction of an estimated half a billion individuals and major research efforts globally, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of this condition remain elusive.

This symposium represents the culminating session and 'report back' from the first international scientific workshop focused entirely on the pathogenesis of Long COVID, convened at Yale over a span of two days. Discussion topics will include putative immunologic, virologic, and vascular mechanisms, as well as considerations specific to the central nervous system, pediatrics, and implications for future studies and clinical trials.

This presentation–being offered in person and via Zoom–is open to both the Yale community and the public, aims to disseminate the latest scientific advancements and provide a forum for rigorous discussion.

Agenda:

• 10:30 - 10:35 a.m.: Introduction
• 10:35 - 10:50 a.m.: Immunology
• 10:50 - 11:05 a.m.: Viral persistence & viral reactivation
• 11:05 - 11:20 a.m.: Vascular & clotting
• 11:20 - 11:35 a.m.: Pathogenesis specific to the CNS
• 11:35 - 11:50 a.m.: Pathogenesis specific to pediatrics
• 11:50 a.m. -12:20 p.m.: Discussion of implications for clinical trials, necessary cohorts, best use of available samples
• 12:20 - 12:30 p.m.: Summary and next steps