New imaging agent may reveal hidden lung scars in COVID survivors

NCT ID NCT04376593

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, Davis Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-phase study tested a radioactive tracer called 18F-αvβ6-BP in 5 people who had recovered from COVID-19. The goal was to see if the tracer could highlight lung damage on PET/CT scans. Participants received the tracer intravenously and underwent imaging. The study only assessed whether the tracer could be given safely and whether it accumulated in areas of lung injury.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: 18F-αvβ6-binding-peptide (a radioactive tracer for PET scans)
What this could lead to: If successful, this imaging method could help doctors see lung damage from COVID-19 more clearly, potentially guiding treatment decisions.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, tiny study (5 people) that only tests whether the tracer can be given safely and shows up in the lungs. It does not test any treatment or long-term outcomes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

COVID-19

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

COVID-19 SARS-COV-2 INFECTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California Davis

Sacramento, California, 95817, United States

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