Investigating how SARS-CoV-2 affects the brain and immune system

Viral and immune-mediated CNS pathology during SARS-CoV-2 infection

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11175753

This study is looking at how the COVID-19 virus affects the brain and nervous system, especially why some people experience symptoms like headaches, seizures, or loss of smell and taste, and it invites patients to help by sharing their experiences and samples.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11175753 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the central nervous system (CNS) and the immune response in infected individuals. It aims to understand how the virus may invade the CNS and cause neurological symptoms such as seizures, headaches, and loss of smell and taste. By examining the immune response and potential neuroinflammation associated with the infection, the study seeks to clarify the mechanisms behind these symptoms. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help uncover these effects.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals who have experienced neurological symptoms following a COVID-19 infection.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or do not exhibit neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment of neurological symptoms associated with COVID-19.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that similar approaches to studying the effects of coronaviruses on the CNS have been successful, indicating potential for meaningful findings in this area.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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 Airway infections
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.