Restoring Serotonin Signaling in Long COVID: A Clinical Trial

Written By Basa Zvarova

MAAYAN LEVY, MD

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

Investigating the role of serotonin signaling in Long COVID and potential therapeutic interventions. Their research suggests a link between persistent viral infection in the gastrointestinal tract, inflammation, and reduced serotonin levels, which may contribute to neurocognitive symptoms in Long COVID patients.

The first phase of the study involves measuring viral persistence, inflammation, and serotonin levels in Long COVID patients and control participants. Stool samples will be analyzed for viral RNA, blood samples for interferon levels, and platelet-rich plasma for serotonin levels. This phase aims to clarify whether these factors are associated with Long COVID.

In the second phase, a phase I clinical trial will be conducted with 150 Long COVID patients experiencing low serotonin levels and neurocognitive symptoms. Participants will be divided into three treatment groups: placebo, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment, and oral administration of the serotonin precursor molecule 5-HTP. The trial will assess the safety and efficacy of modulating serotonin signaling in Long COVID patients over three months.

Basa Zvarova
Previous

The Charles M. Vallee Biorepository for Long COVID Science
Next

Dartmouth Medical Center Post Acute COVID Syndrome Clinic