Investigating brain blood vessel issues in people recovering from COVID-19
Official title: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Biomarkers of Post-COVID-19 Cerebral Microvascular Dysfunction
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11089438 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how COVID-19 might affect the brain in some people after they recover, especially focusing on issues with tiny blood vessels that could lead to problems like memory loss and mood swings, and it’s for anyone who has experienced these lingering symptoms after their COVID-19 illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $231,525 |
| NIH project number | 5K23NS133488-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089438 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who have experienced neurological symptoms after recovering from COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had COVID-19 or do not exhibit neurological symptoms related to the virus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the neurological effects that some individuals experience after recovering from COVID-19, known as neuro-PASC. It aims to identify specific brain blood vessel problems using advanced MRI techniques, which may contribute to symptoms like cognitive impairment and mood changes. By examining these microvascular issues, the study seeks to uncover the underlying causes of these persistent symptoms and assess the risk of developing further complications, such as vascular dementia. Participants will undergo MRI scans to help identify biomarkers associated with these brain changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for cognitive and neurological issues following COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has indicated that examining microvascular dysfunction can provide valuable insights into post-viral neurological conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcalpine, Lindsay — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Mcalpine, Lindsay
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.