SARS-CoV-2 Spike may trigger production of antibodies that cross-react with human thrombopoietin to induce thrombocytopenia

Scientists have stated that molecular mimicry between human proteins and pathogens can incorrectly lead to antibodies attacking human proteins. Such an occurrence can cause transient or chronic autoimmune disorders. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infected individuals often suffer from thrombocytopenia, a condition associated with low platelet counts. The cytokine…