Could 'Zombie Cells' be behind long COVID? new study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT04903132

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Mayo Clinic Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study examines whether senescent cells—sometimes called 'zombie cells' that accumulate with age—contribute to Long-Hauler Syndrome, a condition where COVID-19 symptoms persist long after the initial infection. Researchers at Mayo Clinic will compare markers of cellular aging in 200 adults who have had COVID-19, including those with Long-Hauler Syndrome and healthy controls. If a strong link is found, it may support launching a future trial of senolytic drugs, which are designed to clear these aged cells from the body.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to: If a link is found, this could pave the way for a trial of senolytic drugs to treat Long-Hauler Syndrome.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study that only looks for correlations, not a treatment test. It may not lead to any therapy.

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 long COVID-19

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SARS-COV2 INFECTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mayo Clinic in Rochester

Rochester, Minnesota, 55905, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.