Investigating the links between obesity, insulin resistance, and long COVID
Obesity, Insulin Resistance, and PASC: Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Inflammation in Human Adipose Tissue
This study is trying to see if obesity and insulin resistance make long-lasting COVID-19 symptoms worse, by looking at fat tissue and its role in inflammation and the virus.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 55 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Palo Alto, California and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05833217 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines how obesity and insulin resistance may contribute to persistent symptoms following COVID-19, known as post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). Researchers will analyze adipose tissue to determine if it plays a role in chronic inflammation or serves as a reservoir for the virus. The study involves procedures such as adipose tissue biopsies and steady state plasma glucose tests to gather data on these relationships. The findings aim to identify risk factors and biological mechanisms that could lead to new treatment options for affected individuals.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 80 with a BMI of 25 kg/m2 or higher who are not currently pregnant.
Not a fit: Patients with major organ diseases, diabetes, or those who have undergone bariatric surgery may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to targeted therapies for individuals suffering from long COVID, particularly those with obesity and insulin resistance.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking obesity and insulin resistance to long COVID is novel, related studies have shown success in understanding the impacts of obesity on various health conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 18 to 80 * BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 * not currently pregnant Exclusion Criteria: Arm 2 (Adipose Tissue Biopsy) exclusions include * pregnancy * prior liposuction * recent change in weight (\> 2 kg in one month) * bleeding disorders * anticoagulant use Arm 3 (healthy controls only) exclusions include patients with * major organ disease * diabetes * history of liposuction * bariatric surgery * eating disorders * psychiatric disorders * pregnancy or lactation * recent change in weight (over the past 12 weeks), * use of weight loss medication or oral steroids * hematocrit \< 33% * fasting glucose \>= 126 mg/dL * blood pressure \>160/100 mmHg
Where this trial is running
Palo Alto, California and 1 other locations
- Clinical and Translational Research Unit — Palo Alto, California, United States (Enrolling_by_invitation)
- Stanford Health — Palo Alto, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tracey McLaughlin, MD — Stanford School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Nicole Turk, BS
- Email: nturk@stanford.edu
- Phone: 6508880144
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.