Identifying biomarkers for severe COVID-19 in children

Discovery and clinical validation of host biomarkers of disease severity and multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) with Covid-19

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10847826

This study is working on new ways to test and understand how serious COVID-19 might be for kids, especially those at risk for a condition called MIS-C, by looking at easy-to-collect samples like nasal swabs and blood, so doctors can better predict how the illness will affect young patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10847826 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing clinical tests to accurately diagnose and predict the severity of COVID-19 in children, particularly those at risk for multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). The project involves collecting samples from pediatric patients and using advanced techniques like machine learning to analyze genetic and biological markers. By evaluating data from nasal swabs and blood samples, the researchers aim to create predictive models that can help healthcare providers understand the potential outcomes of COVID-19 in young patients. This approach is designed to be noninvasive and utilizes samples that are easily collected in clinical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are at risk for developing MIS-C.

Not a fit: Patients who are adults or those without a COVID-19 diagnosis or risk for MIS-C may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for children suffering from severe COVID-19 and MIS-C.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarker approaches for other diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel application in pediatric COVID-19.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.