Immune-mediated Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neuro-PASC in Veterans

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Apr 9, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking into the long-lasting effects of COVID-19 on mental health, specifically for Veterans who are experiencing issues like "brain fog" and other cognitive problems after their infection. The researchers want to learn more about how COVID-19 affects the brain and identify specific markers that could help in developing treatments. To do this, they will be studying Veterans who have had COVID-19 and are currently experiencing ongoing symptoms. The study will take place at two VA medical centers and aims to track cognitive function and mental health over time, while also collecting biological data to understand the connection between these symptoms and the body’s immune response.

To participate, individuals must be between the ages of 18 and 80, have tested positive for COVID-19 at least four weeks prior, and currently have symptoms related to what is known as Neuro-PASC (a term used to describe ongoing neurological issues following COVID-19). Participants will need to provide informed consent, which means they will be informed about the study and must understand what it involves. However, individuals with certain pre-existing conditions, like dementia or severe mood disorders, cannot join the study. Those who do participate can expect to engage in assessments of their cognitive and mental health over time, contributing to important research that could lead to better treatment options for those affected.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• Eligible participants will:
• • have a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection 4 weeks prior to enrollment, defined as a positive PCR or home antigen test
• • be able to give informed consent as determined by brief cognitive exam and evaluation of understanding of the risks, benefits, and voluntary nature of the study
• Additionally, participants enrolled as part of the neuro-PASC group must also:
• • currently experience neuro-PASC symptoms, not present prior to infection, as confirmed by the "Long COVID-19 Symptom Assessment" scale, a self-report measure that consists of 46 common COVID-19 sequela symptoms
• Exclusion Criteria:
• Exclusion criteria for all groups:
• • diagnosed with dementia, traumatic brain injury, a neurological syndrome (e.g. Parkinson disease, Alzheimer disease), or other progressive cognitive disorder before SARS-CoV-2 infection
• • diagnosed with a mood or psychotic disorder before SARS-CoV-2 infection
• • history of fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection
• • unstable medical conditions or active uncontrolled autoimmune or inflammatory conditions