Investigating how SARS-CoV-2 affects brain function and behavior
Official title: The neuroimmune mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 on synaptic transmission and plasticity
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11022074 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the COVID-19 virus affects brain activity and behavior in mice to help us understand the potential long-term brain issues that people recovering from COVID-19 might face.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | January 10, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $384,772 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH135862-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11022074 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced neurological symptoms following COVID-19 infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or do not exhibit neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on brain activity and behavior using a mouse model. The study aims to understand how the virus alters neuronal activity and activates immune cells in the brain, which may lead to neurological disorders. By examining these mechanisms, researchers hope to uncover the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on brain function. The findings could provide insights into the neurological challenges faced by individuals recovering from COVID-19.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for neurological issues related to COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding the neurological effects of viral infections, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Du, Jianyang — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Du, Jianyang
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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.