Autoimmune characteristics and the renin-angiotensin system in post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome

Post-acute COVID-19 vaccination syndrome (PACVS) is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies affecting the autonomic and cardiovascular systems. This phenomenon is closely linked to the Spike protein, used as an antigen in vaccines, which can alter the balance of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS, a complex hormonal mechanism the body uses to long-term regulate blood pressure, blood volume, and electrolyte balance).

The formation of antibodies against angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a protein that lives on the surface of many cells in our body (especially in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and intestines) and plays a fundamental role: it is a vital protector for our cardiovascular health, but it is the "entry point" for covid, and furthermore, the MAS1 receptor (a key protein that acts as the protective "brake" within the renin-angiotensin system), contributes to persistent RAS dysregulation.

This imbalance promotes pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic states, linking to clinical symptoms such as asthenia, headache, cutaneous edema, and neurovegetative manifestations..