Short-term White Matter Microstructural Changes in Young Adults Infected with SARS-COV-2 Omicron Variant

Motivation: The prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant poses a significant concern. It is important to investigate its potential repercussions on public health. Goal(s): To evaluate the impacts of Omicron variant on white matter microstructure. Approach: Diffusion MRI data were acquired on young adults tested positive for COVID-19 antigen or nucleic acid within two months and with non-hospitalized mild symptoms during infection. Tract-wise DTI metrics were used to quantify microstructural properties. Results: SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to significant short-term microstructural changes in the white matter, which exhibit spatial and gender disparity. Impact: This study provides evidence for short-term microstructural changes induced by SARS-COV-2 Omicron variant infection, which motivates further investigation to uncover the mechanisms by which viruses invade the nervous system.