The aim of the study is to understand the mechanism behind PEM in post-COVID patients by investigating how immune cells, such as mast cells, T cells, macrophages and neutrophils, contribute to muscle repair, inflammation and damage. The research focuses on identifying immune cell characteristics, the impact of infiltrating cells on surrounding tissues, and the relationship between mast cell activation and post-COVID phenotypes. Results from this research should provide new insights for targeted therapeutic strategies and treatments for post-COVID patients.
The project directly contributes to better patient care, clinical trials and research methods in the lab. With it, researchers will better understand how the immune system and muscle function are connected.
The project is led by dr. Wüst with junior researcher Koen Zwetsloot both at (VU Amsterdam), in collaboration with international experts, such as Prof. Derave (Ghent) and clinical partners from Erasmus MC and Amsterdam UMC who will contribute with patient information and feedback. The team works closely with Post-COVID Netwerk Nederland (PCNN) and patient organizations to share research results and accelerate treatment of post-COVID.
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