Investigating how COVID-19 affects brain health through tau protein changes

Molecular Targets Modulating Neuro COVID Sequelae Linked to Tauopathy

NIH-funded research University of South Florida · NIH-11192311

This study is looking at how COVID-19 might affect the brain over time, especially in older adults, by examining changes in a protein called tau that can be linked to brain health, with the hope of finding better ways to understand and treat these effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-11192311 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the long-term neurological effects of COVID-19, known as neuro-COVID, particularly how the virus influences tau protein abnormalities in the brain. By studying mouse models, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to these changes, especially in older adults who may be more susceptible due to age-related inflammation. The team will analyze how COVID-19 infection impacts neuroinflammation and tau pathology, potentially leading to better insights into the condition's progression and treatment options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have experienced neurological symptoms following COVID-19 infection.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had COVID-19 or do not exhibit neurological symptoms related to the virus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing neuro-COVID symptoms and improving brain health in affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on COVID-19 and tauopathy is novel, related research on neurodegenerative diseases and inflammation has shown promising results in understanding similar mechanisms.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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.
Conditions adverse sequelae of coronavirus diseaseadverse sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019
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.