Understanding why some people have long-lasting COVID-19 infections

Dissecting the drivers of persistent SARS-CoV-2 infections

['FUNDING_R01'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-10889260

This study is looking into why some people with weakened immune systems continue to have SARS-CoV-2 infections even after getting sick, and it aims to find out how the virus changes in these patients over time to help improve treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10889260 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind persistent SARS-CoV-2 infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals who may not clear the virus after the initial infection. By analyzing clinical data and using advanced techniques in bioinformatics and genomics, the study aims to identify the clinical features and treatments associated with these ongoing infections. The researchers will utilize a large dataset from New York City, examining how the virus evolves within patients over time. This comprehensive approach seeks to uncover the mechanisms that lead to prolonged viral presence and the emergence of new variants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include immunocompromised individuals who have experienced prolonged COVID-19 infections.

Not a fit: Patients who have fully recovered from COVID-19 and do not have ongoing symptoms or infections are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with persistent COVID-19 infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding viral persistence can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has the potential for success.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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 →

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.