NCT07770022 · University of California, San Francisco
Validation of Biomarkers for Long COVID in the LIINC Viral Immunopathogenesis and Persistence Repeat Donor Cohort (VIPER)
(VIPER)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to better understand the biological changes associated with Long COVID and to identify laboratory tests (biomarkers) that may help diagnose the condition and measure how it changes over time. Researchers will enroll people with Long COVID as well as people who have fully recovered after COVID-19 infection.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to better understand the biological changes associated with Long COVID and to identify laboratory tests (biomarkers) that may help diagnose the condition and measure how it changes over time. Researchers will enroll people with Long COVID as well as people who have fully recovered after COVID-19 infection. Participants will provide health information and biological samples, such as blood, saliva, stool, and, for some participants, tissue biopsies. These samples will be used to study the biological processes involved in Long COVID and to support the development of new diagnostic tests that may improve future research, clinical trials, and patient care.
Primary outcome measures
Participant age
Time frame: Baseline visit
The median age of study participants at enrollment
Participant sex
Time frame: Baseline visit
The proportion of men and women participating in the baseline visit.
Participant race/ethnicity
Time frame: Baseline visit
The proportion of participants from each demographic group
Proportion of participants previously hospitalized
Time frame: Baseline visit
The proportion of participants who were previously hospitalized
Colonoscopy Completed
Time frame: Baseline visit
The proportion of participants completing a research colonoscopy for the study
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Willing and able to provide written informed consent, and
- Age \>/= 18 years, and
- Either: History of a SARS-CoV-2 infection resulting in Long COVID symptoms, confirmed by the investigator, or Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 without establishment of Long COVID.
- Enrolled or willing to enroll and complete at least 1 visit in the UCSF Long-term Impact of Infection with Novel Coronavirus (LIINC).
- Enrolled or willing to be referred for a gut biopsy procedure under related IRB-approved protocols.
Exclusion criteria
- Self-reported or documented chronic anemia with hemoglobin \< 9 g/dL. Anemia during a preceding acute illness will not be exclusionary.
- Serious medical or psychiatric illness that, in the opinion of the site investigator, would interfere with the ability to adhere to study requirements or to give informed consent.
- Presence of a condition or abnormality that in the opinion of the Investigator would compromise the safety of the patient or the quality of the data.
Where
- San Francisco, California
Collaborators
PolyBio Research Foundation
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations