Understanding cognitive control issues in ME/CFS and post-COVID conditions

Mechanisms of Cognitive Control Impairment in ME/CFS and PASC-ME/CFS

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10912805

This study is looking at how Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and post-COVID fatigue affect thinking and memory, often called 'brain fog,' to help us understand why these issues happen and how they can be better treated, and we invite patients to share their experiences to help with this important research.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the cognitive control impairments experienced by patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and those suffering from post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC-ME/CFS). The study aims to identify the underlying mechanisms contributing to cognitive dysfunction, often described as 'brain fog', which affects daily functioning. By utilizing advanced brain imaging techniques and biomarker identification, the research seeks to provide insights into how these conditions develop and persist after viral infections. Patients may be involved in assessments that help clarify their symptoms and contribute to a better understanding of these complex disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS or those experiencing prolonged cognitive symptoms following COVID-19.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have ME/CFS or post-COVID cognitive symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic criteria and targeted treatments for patients suffering from ME/CFS and PASC-ME/CFS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive impairments in similar patient populations, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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 adverse sequelae of coronavirus diseaseadverse sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019
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.