Understanding how neutrophils affect Long COVID in children
Official title: Defining neutrophil pathobiology in pediatric Long COVID
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11077808 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of white blood cell called neutrophils behaves in children with Long COVID, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $715,054 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL173059-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077808 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have experienced Long COVID symptoms following a SARS-CoV-2 infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in children suffering from Long COVID after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The team will analyze neutrophil activation profiles using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and microfluidics to compare children with Long COVID to healthy peers. By identifying specific neutrophil behaviors and gene expressions, the research aims to uncover potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for this condition. Additionally, the study will collaborate with an ongoing clinical trial to explore treatments that may reverse harmful neutrophil activation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for children suffering from Long COVID.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding immune cell behavior can lead to significant advancements in treating post-viral syndromes, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yonker, Lael — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Yonker, Lael
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Defining neutrophil biology in pediatric Long COVID
This project looks at why some kids develop Long COVID by studying neutrophils to help find new ways to diagnose and treat the condition.
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Advancing Long COVID Care in Our Community through Access and Collaboration
A community-focused project to make long COVID care more accessible and equitable for people in St. Louis and rural Missouri.
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Pediatric Long COVID Care Network: Improving access and coordinated care for children
A nationwide pediatric program is testing a patient-centered, multi-disciplinary approach to help children with long COVID, especially in underserved communities.
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Comunidad: Expanding Long COVID care in underserved South Texas
A new program will broaden and coordinate Long COVID care for underserved communities in San Antonio and South Texas to improve access and outcomes.
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Atlanta Long COVID Coordinated Care Model for Diverse Populations
A regional program in Atlanta aims to improve access and coordination of care for people with Long COVID, especially in underserved communities.
-
Long COVID Care Resources and Education to Improve Community Health
A program to support federally-qualified health centers in providing better Long COVID care through education, a shared hub, and easy referral pathways for underserved communities.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.