Long COVID has emerged as a frustrating and persistent challenge for millions of people worldwide. Even after the initial COVID-19 infection has passed, many are left grappling with symptoms such as debilitating fatigue, unrelenting brain fog, and a shortness of breath that just won’t shift.
Now, scientists are uncovering another critical piece of the puzzle: autoantibodies. One type in particular — anti-muscarinic cholinergic receptor autoantibodies (anti-CHRM) — is gaining attention for its potential role in driving ongoing symptoms.
What Are Anti-CHRM Autoantibodies?
To understand anti-CHRM autoantibodies, let’s first look at muscarinic cholinergic receptors (CHRM). These receptors help regulate everything from your heart rate and digestion to cognitive function. Think of them as managers in a busy office.
Now imagine someone sneaks in, impersonates the managers, and causes chaos — that’s essentially what anti-CHRM autoantibodies do. In Long COVID, the immune system gets confused and starts attacking the body’s own tissues. These rogue antibodies target CHRM receptors, leading to dysfunction across multiple systems.
Why Does This Matter?
If you’ve experienced brain fog, dizziness, or a racing heart post-COVID, these autoantibodies could be involved. Recent research highlights their potential role in the persistent symptoms seen in Long COVID.
How Do They Affect the Body?
Anti-CHRM autoantibodies may impact:
- Orthostatic Intolerance: Feeling dizzy or faint when standing up could be linked to disrupted blood flow regulation.
- Irregular Heart Rate: CHRM receptors help manage your heart’s rhythm. When targeted by autoantibodies, you might experience tachycardia (a fast heart rate).
- Brain Fog & Memory Issues: These antibodies may interfere with cognitive processing, causing forgetfulness or mental cloudiness.
- Digestive Problems: Symptoms like bloating, nausea, or constipation may also be related, as CHRM receptors play a role in gut function.
What Does the Research Say?
A study by Dr. Würtzner and Dr. Prusty (2025) revealed that anti-CHRM autoantibodies interfere with the autonomic nervous system — the part of the body that manages essential functions like breathing, heart rate, and digestion. Their research also suggests potential effects on other organs, though more data is needed.
These findings support the theory that Long COVID is not psychological — it’s biological. It’s real. And we’re just beginning to understand it.
What Could This Mean for Patients?
The discovery of anti-CHRM autoantibodies opens new avenues for treatment and diagnosis.
Potential Therapies:
- Immunotherapy: Options like plasma exchange or IVIG may help reduce harmful autoantibodies, though more trials are needed for Long COVID specifically.
- Autoimmune-Targeted Treatments: Therapies that directly address the autoimmune component could revolutionise care.
Symptom Management:
- Orthostatic Intolerance: Compression garments and hydration can help.
- Cognitive Symptoms: Pacing and cognitive therapy may support recovery.
Diagnostics:
In future, testing for these autoantibodies could become part of diagnosing Long COVID, allowing for tailored treatment plans.
🔬 Why Continued Research Is Vital
This is a game-changing discovery — but it’s only the beginning. We need:
- Better diagnostic tools
- Larger-scale clinical trials
- Greater awareness among healthcare providers
Too many patients still hear that Long COVID is “all in their head”. The science disagrees.
A Final Word (With a Wink)
Living with Long COVID can feel like you’re trapped in an endless soap opera. But you’re not imagining it. Your symptoms are real. Your story matters. And with researchers like Dr. Würtzner and Dr. Prusty at the forefront, progress is on the way.
So take a deep breath. Science is catching up. One step at a time.
Reference
Würtzner, L., & Prusty, B. (2025). Anti-muscarinic cholinergic receptor autoantibodies in Long COVID: Mechanisms and implications. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak to your healthcare provider about any concerns or symptoms.
Long Covid Journey 