Protein damage can affect various organs in the body, depending on the type of protein and the mechanism of damage. Here are some examples:
- Kidneys: High protein intake, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, can put extra strain on the kidneys and lead to damage. [High dietary protein intake leads to the dilation of the afferent arteriole and increased GFR, which may lead to damage to kidney structures over time due to glomerular hyperfiltration.]
- Heart: The spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been shown to directly damage heart muscle cells, potentially leading to heart injury and other cardiovascular complications. [Coronavirus spike protein activated natural immune response damaged heart muscle cells, which can lead to heart injury ... damage to the body, severe infection and, among some people, death.]
- Lungs: The SARS-CoV-2 virus can also cause damage to the lungs, leading to inflammation and respiratory distress. [Protein-Driven Mechanism of Multiorgan Damage in COVID-19 ... Our goal instead is to propose a plausible alternative mechanism through which damages can be extended from the lungs to other organs in COVID-19.]
- Brain: Amyloid proteins, which are misfolded proteins, can accumulate in the brain and contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. [What Happens to the Brain in Alzheimer's Disease? | National ... ... body — more than any other organ. In people with ... Cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke can damage ...]
It's important to note that protein damage to an organ is often the result of a complex interplay of factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices.