fMRI (fMRI) to assess brain connectivity in Long COVID patients
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring Functional Brain Connectivity Changes in Long COVID Patients Using Resting-State fMRI: A Longitudinal Observational Study
IRAS ID
359265
Contact name
Karen Knapp
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Exeter
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
This study aims to explore how long COVID affects brain function by using a type of brain scan called functional MRI (fMRI). Many people who have had COVID-19 continue to experience symptoms like memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mental fatigue—sometimes called "brain fog." These symptoms may be caused by changes in how different parts of the brain communicate with each other, even after the initial infection has passed.
In this study, we will invite adults who have been diagnosed with long COVID to take part in two MRI scan sessions—one at the beginning of the study and another approximately six months later. During each session, participants will undergo a resting-state fMRI scan, which is a safe and non-invasive way to study brain activity. While being scanned, participants will simply lie still and relaxed with their eyes open or closed, without performing any specific tasks.
The goal is to identify any changes in brain connectivity over time and to see if these changes relate to ongoing symptoms of long COVID. Participants will also complete a few questionnaires about their symptoms, general health, and wellbeing.
The findings from this study could help researchers and healthcare professionals understand the brain-related effects of long COVID and may contribute to the development of better ways to diagnose and manage these ongoing symptoms. This research is being conducted as part of a PhD project at the University of Exeter, with support from NHS collaborators.
Participation in the study is entirely voluntary, and all information collected will be kept strictly confidential.
REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/SW/0109
Date of REC Opinion
27 Nov 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion