Testing for antibodies to understand COVID-19 exposure and immunity

SARS-CoV-2 Serological Antibody Testing for Disease Surveillance and Clinical Use

NIH-funded research Kaiser Foundation Research Institute · NIH-11159160

This study is looking for people aged 7 and up to help us learn more about how many folks in our community have been exposed to COVID-19 and developed antibodies, even if they didn't show any symptoms, so we can better understand immunity over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionKaiser Foundation Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11159160 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 to better understand COVID-19 exposure and immunity in the community. It aims to establish a large-scale cohort of individuals aged 7 years and older from Kaiser Permanente Northern California to assess the prevalence and incidence of antibodies over time. Participants will undergo serological testing to identify those who have been exposed to the virus, including asymptomatic cases, which are often missed by traditional PCR testing. The study will also analyze demographic, behavioral, and clinical data to provide a comprehensive view of the antibody response in the population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals aged 7 years and older who are members of Kaiser Permanente Northern California.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 or those outside the age range of 7 years and older may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of COVID-19 immunity and inform public health strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that serological testing can effectively identify COVID-19 exposure and has been used successfully in similar epidemiological studies.

Where this research is happening

Oakland, 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.
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.