Can a thymus gland protein shield dialysis patients from COVID-19?

NCT ID NCT04428008

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

Summary

This Phase 2 trial tested whether thymalfasin, a synthetic version of a natural immune-boosting protein, could prevent COVID-19 infection in 189 kidney dialysis patients. These patients are at high risk due to weakened immune systems and frequent clinic visits. The study measured how many got infected, were hospitalized, or died.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Thymalfasin (Thymosin alpha 1, Ta1)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a way to protect vulnerable dialysis patients from COVID-19 infection.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early Phase 2 pilot trial, so results may not be definitive. The drug may not reduce infection rates or severity as hoped.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

end stage renal failure COVID-19 prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Clinical Research Consultants

    Kansas City, Kansas, 64111, United States