Investigating how COVID-19 antibodies affect the brain
Official title: Antibodies in the neurologic effects of COVID-19
Funded at Rush University Medical Center · NIH-11146037 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how COVID-19 antibodies might affect brain cells and cause inflammation, helping us understand how the virus can impact brain function, and it's for anyone interested in the neurological effects of COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $300,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R56NS136172-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11146037 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced neurological symptoms following COVID-19 infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had COVID-19 or do not exhibit neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the neurological effects of COVID-19, specifically focusing on how antibodies produced during the infection may impact brain cells. The study aims to understand the inflammatory responses triggered by these antibodies and their potential to disrupt brain function. Researchers will analyze the effects of different types of antibodies on brain cells derived from human stem cells and will also use animal models to observe how these antibodies interact within the brain. By examining these interactions, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind neuroCOVID-19.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating neurological complications associated with COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has indicated that understanding the role of antibodies in neurological conditions can lead to significant advancements, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Rush University Medical Center
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Al-Harthi, Lena — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Al-Harthi, Lena
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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.