NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how COVID-19 affects the brain and nervous system after infection

Official title: Investigating Mechanisms of Neurological Post Acute Sequelae of SARS CoV2 Using Quantitative Multiparametric In-Vivo and Ex-Vivo MRI

Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11022042 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how COVID-19 might affect the brain in people who have recovered from the virus, especially those experiencing issues like memory problems, tiredness, and mood changes, to help find better ways to treat these symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2024
Project endNovember 30, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$634,622
NIH project number1R01NS136202-01A1
Project IDNIH-11022042 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 but continue to experience neurological symptoms.

Less likely to help

Patients who have not been infected with COVID-19 or those without neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the long-term neurological effects experienced by individuals who have recovered from COVID-19, known as Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). It focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which the virus may cause damage to the brain and brainstem, leading to symptoms such as cognitive impairment, fatigue, and mood disorders. Using advanced MRI techniques, the study aims to identify specific brain changes associated with these neurological symptoms, which could help inform future treatments. By analyzing both in vivo and ex vivo MRI data, the research seeks to uncover the relationship between viral infection, immune response, and neurological damage.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from neurological symptoms following COVID-19.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the neurological impacts of viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Seifert, Alan C — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
  • Study coordinator: Seifert, Alan C

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.