Investigating brain fog in COVID-19 survivors
Glial activation and metabolite contributions to 'brain fog' post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC)
['FUNDING_R21'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10890187
This study is looking at the brain fog some people feel after recovering from COVID-19, and it’s for those who want to understand why they might be having trouble with thinking and focus; participants will have brain scans while doing tasks to help researchers learn more about what's happening in their brains.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10890187 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the cognitive difficulties, often referred to as 'brain fog', experienced by individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. By using advanced neuroimaging techniques, the study aims to measure brain activity and inflammation in specific brain regions during cognitive tasks. Participants will undergo MRI-PET scans while performing tasks designed to assess their cognitive control and attention. The goal is to identify the biological factors contributing to these cognitive symptoms in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals under 21 years old who have experienced cognitive symptoms after recovering from COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had COVID-19 or do not experience cognitive symptoms related to PASC may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for cognitive impairments in COVID-19 survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive symptoms related to inflammation, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VANELZAKKER, MICHAEL B — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: VANELZAKKER, MICHAEL B
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 below.