NIH-funded research R01 grant

How obesity affects COVID-19 infection and its impact on metabolic diseases.

Official title: Impact of obesity on SARS-CoV-2 infection and reciprocal effects of SARS-CoV-2 on metabolic disease

Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10868708 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how being overweight might affect how seriously someone gets sick from COVID-19 and how COVID-19 could impact conditions like diabetes and heart disease, so if you're interested in how these health issues connect, you might be able to help us learn more!

More Obesity research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon Health & Science University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$951,400
NIH project number5R01DK132225-02
Project IDNIH-10868708 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are living with obesity.

Less likely to help

Patients without obesity or those who do not have any metabolic diseases may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between obesity and the severity of COVID-19 infections, as well as how COVID-19 may influence metabolic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. The study will explore whether obesity is an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes, even in the absence of other diagnosed conditions. By examining the effects of obesity on the immune response and metabolic processes, the research aims to uncover the reciprocal effects of COVID-19 on metabolic health. Patients may be involved in assessments that help understand these interactions and their implications for treatment.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of COVID-19 in patients with obesity, potentially reducing severe outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a link between obesity and respiratory diseases, suggesting that this area of investigation could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Oregon Health & Science University
    Portland, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Roberts, Charles T — Oregon Health & Science University
  • Study coordinator: Roberts, Charles T

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.