Understanding and treating exercise intolerance after COVID-19

Pathogenic Mechanism and Therapeutic Approaches for Exercise Intolerance in Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11019369

This study is looking into why some people have trouble exercising after recovering from COVID-19, and it aims to find out how certain factors in the body might be affecting their ability to be active, which could help improve treatments for those facing these challenges.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11019369 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the causes of exercise intolerance in patients who have experienced post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). The team will utilize advanced cardiopulmonary exercise testing to identify molecular and physiological factors that contribute to this condition. By exploring the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and its relationship with exercise capacity, the research aims to uncover potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The findings could lead to improved treatment strategies for those affected by exercise limitations following COVID-19.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing exercise intolerance following a COVID-19 infection.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced exercise intolerance or those who have not had a confirmed COVID-19 infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that significantly improve exercise capacity and quality of life for patients suffering from PASC.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the long-term effects of COVID-19, but this specific investigation into exercise intolerance is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acute Lung Injury, Acute Pulmonary Injury, adverse sequelae of coronavirus disease, adverse sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.