265: Resiliency Radio with Dr. Jill: Pathogen Persistence & Immune Dysfunction in Long-COVID

In this insightful episode, Dr. Jill Carnahan sits down with Dr. Amy Proal as they delve into the emerging connections between Bartonella infections and Long Covid, revealing new research that may reshape our understanding of chronic illness. Discover how the MTOR pathway plays a pivotal role in pathogen survival and mitochondrial health, and how drugs like rapamycin could be game-changers in managing these infections. We also explore Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and its links to unresolved infections, offering hope for treatment beyond medication.

Key Discussions

①  Bartonella and Long Covid:
👉 The episode highlights the connection between Bartonella infections and Long Covid. It is noted that individuals diagnosed with Long Covid often test positive for Bartonella, suggesting a potential link that is being actively researched.

②  MTOR Pathway and Pathogens:
👉The MTOR pathway is discussed as a critical component in mitochondrial metabolism and its role in pathogen survival. Pathogens often hijack this pathway to sustain themselves, and inhibiting MTOR with drugs like rapamycin could stabilize mitochondria and impede pathogen replication.

③ Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS):
👉The conversation explores how mast cell activation can be linked to unresolved infections, suggesting that addressing these infections might reduce mast cell activity without relying heavily on medication.

④ Long Covid Research Consortium:
👉The formation of a consortium dedicated to Long Covid research is discussed. This group aims to share data and samples across sites to enhance understanding and accelerate research efforts.

⑤ Therapeutic Trials and Interventions:
👉Trials involving low-dose rapamycin and metformin are mentioned as promising approaches to manage infection-associated chronic issues. These drugs may help prevent the progression of acute infections to chronic conditions.

⑥ Environmental Factors and Health:
👉The importance of clean air and the impact of environmental factors like mold on health are discussed. The episode suggests practical solutions such as using HEPA filters and UVC lights to improve indoor air quality.

Key Takeaways
📌 Interconnected Systems: The human body's systems are highly interconnected, and understanding these connections is crucial for addressing chronic diseases.
📌 Research and Collaboration: Collaborative research efforts are vital for advancing our understanding of complex conditions like Long Covid.
📌 Innovative Treatments: Exploring new uses for existing medications, such as rapamycin and metformin, could offer new avenues for treatment.
📌 Environmental Awareness: Addressing environmental factors can play a significant role in managing health and preventing disease progression.

This episode provides valuable insights into the ongoing research and potential treatments for chronic diseases associated with infections, emphasizing the need for a holistic and collaborative approach.

👨‍⚕️ Amy Proal, PhD - https://polybio.org/ 
Amy Proal, PhD, is a microbiologist and chronic disease researcher with expertise in systems biology, the human microbiome, and the role of persistent infections in complex chronic conditions. She is the President of the Polybio Research Foundation, where she leads collaborative research projects focused on the molecular mechanisms driving conditions such as Long COVID, ME/CFS, and post-treatment Lyme disease. Dr. Proal earned her PhD in microbiology from Murdoch University and has published extensively on the intersection of infection, immunity, and neuroinflammation. Her work emphasizes the importance of precision medicine and open-science collaboration in tackling poorly understood diseases.

🌍 https://polybio.org/