Calcitonin gene-related peptide: A biomarker for stroke in SARS-CoV-2 infection?

ABSTRACT

COVID-19 infection was mainly associated with respiratory symptoms, but lately, ischemic stroke (IS) has been reported in several cases. The incidence of IS in SARS-CoV-2 infection is increasing, and its mechanism is still not fully understood. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) -the abundantly expressed protein in the peripheral and central nervous system- showed low expression in SARS-CoV-2 patients. This peptide is strongly implicated in regulating cerebral blood flow (CBF) and improving neurological deficits after cerebral arterial occlusion. We assume that a possible interplay between the low circulating levels of CGRP may affect CBF, thus worsening the symptoms of IS in SARS-CoV-2 patients.