Post-COVID: No longer a blind spot? DZPG launches new research project FEDORA

Professor Martin Walter, DZPG partner site spokeperson and Director of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at Jena University Hospital, emphasizes: “The psychological symptoms associated with PCC are often distinct from known mental health disorders, although these can indeed occur more frequently in PCC. Many cases involve unique neuropsychiatric syndromes that require specialized care within the context of other physical impairments.”

The FEDORA research project: precise diagnoses and individualized treatment options

With the launch of FEDORA, the DZPG takes a significant step toward investigating the physical (physiological) and neuropsychiatric (neurological and psychological) patterns of PCC. The project, lasting from November 2024 to October 2026 with BMBF funding of approximately 1.2 million euros, aims to create long-term profiles of PCC and to identify both somatic and neuropsychiatric patterns that will support more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans in the future.

Deployment of new data and innovative methods

FEDORA uses innovative approaches, combining physiological data (such as sleep patterns, heart rate, and physical activity) with subjective evaluations provided by affected individuals, to develop a comprehensive picture of the illness. The project leverages sensor data and Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) data. These include continuous measurements of physiological parameters collected via wearable sensors, such as activity trackers and heart rate monitors, as well as situational assessments via smartphone, where participants report on their current status and well-being multiple times a day.

This methodology allows for a detailed, high-resolution timeline of symptoms and their fluctuations. “By integrating sensor data with EMA data, we can correlate objective and subjective parameters,” Professor Walter explains. “This enables us to identify specific patterns and create individual risk profiles.”

Researchers will analyze these diverse data sources—including studies on PCC, field data from specialized centers, and large epidemiological datasets encompassing over 250,000 healthy individuals and those affected by PCC—using artificial intelligence.

“Our goal is to identify specific patient subgroups and potential prognostic markers that indicate a higher risk for severe long-term effects,” Walter says. “This lays the groundwork for personalized prevention and treatment strategies.”

Relevance for psychiatry and clinical practice

The findings are expected not only to enhance diagnostics and treatment for PCC but also to mitigate neuropsychiatric comorbidities such as depression, anxiety disorders, and post-exertional malaise (PEM).

“FEDORA contributes to ensuring that affected individuals receive appropriate support and treatment, helping to strengthen or rebuild their physical and cognitive resources,” states Professor Andreas Heinz, partner site spokeperson and founding spokeperson of DZPG.

Professor Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg, also a founding spokesperson of the DZPG, adds, “With FEDORA, the DZPG is taking an important step towards a better long-term understanding of PCC and the improved care of those affected, thereby supporting not only patients but also their families. This research represents a key element in combating the growing societal impact of Long/Post-COVID.”

The close alignment of FEDORA with another project funded by the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) provides a concrete perspective for translating FEDORA's insights into improved clinical care for PCC patients. In the REMIT project ("Remote Monitoring & Intervention for Optimized Care of Post-COVID Condition"), an interdisciplinary DZPG team led by Professor Nils Opel (DZPG Jena site) collaborates with industry partners to apply FEDORA’s findings in innovative digital diagnostic and care approaches for PCC patients. This project will develop both technical solutions and complementary measures, such as training for healthcare providers to effectively integrate digital tools in various care settings—from primary care practices to specialized university post-COVID centers.

Source: DZPG