NCT06932237 · VA Office of Research and Development
Immune-mediated Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neuro-PASC in Veterans
(PASC)
What this study is about
Mental health symptoms, including cognitive impairment ("brain fog"), following COVID-19 are of great concern to Veterans. This research seeks to advance understanding of the long-term effects of COVID-19 on neuropsychiatric and neurological functions, identifying clinically relevant biomarkers and directions for developing and testing therapeutic interventions.
View original scientific description
Mental health symptoms, including cognitive impairment ("brain fog"), following COVID-19 are of great concern to Veterans. This research seeks to advance understanding of the long-term effects of COVID-19 on neuropsychiatric and neurological functions, identifying clinically relevant biomarkers and directions for developing and testing therapeutic interventions. To accomplish these objectives the investigators are conducting a longitudinal study at two VA medical centers to: 1) assess and monitor cognitive function and psychiatric symptoms in Veterans post-COVID; 2) evaluate biomarkers of inflammation and signaling pathways associated with viral infection and neuropsychiatric function; and 3) integrate neuropsychiatric and neurological findings with biological data to identify biomarkers and clinical endpoints associated with disease progression or severity, as well as those for promoting brain repair and attenuating those symptoms.
Primary outcome measures
Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Month, 12-Month
A nine-item self-report questionnaire designed to assess fatigue as a symptom of a variety of different chronic conditions and disorders.
Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire (PRMQ)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Month, 12-Month
A self-report measure of everyday memory, assessing prospective (the ability to remember to do things in the future) and retrospective memory.
Spatial Working Memory (SWM)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Months, 12-Months
Online cognitive assessment requiring retention and manipulation of visuospatial information; measures executive functioning (i.e., strategy) and working memory.
Paired Associates Learning (PAL)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Month, 12-Month
Online cognitive assessment measuring visual memory and new learning.
Stockings of Cambridge (SOC)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Month, 12-Month
Online cognitive assessment measuring problem-solving strategies.
Delayed Matching Sample (DMS)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Month, 12-Month
Online cognitive assessment measuring visual matching ability and short-term visual recognition memory.
Rapid Visual Information Processing (RVP)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Month, 12-Month
Online cognitive assessment measuring sustained attention.
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) Genotyping
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Months, 12-Months
A genetic test that determines a person's inherited variations in the APOE gene. This gene plays a role in cholesterol metabolism and brain health. Blood and saliva samples will be used.
Long Covid Questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline
Self-report measure that assesses the continued presence of Long-COVID symptomology.
Delis-Kaplan Executive Functioning - Verbal Fluency (D-KEFS-VF)
Time frame: Baseline, 6-Months, 12-Months
Neuropsychological assessment measure of verbal behavioral productivity and cognitive flexibility.
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
- 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
- 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
Where
- Portland, Oregon
- Mountain Home, Tennessee
Collaborators
James H. Quillen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
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 Mar 31, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations