Obesity, Insulin Resistance, and PASC: Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Inflammation in Human Adipose Tissue
Stanford University
Summary
The investigators are studying the pathophysiologic links between obesity, insulin resistance (IR), adipose tissue infection, and post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). This study looks at whether adipose (fat) tissue contributes to PASC by driving chronic inflammation or by serving as a reservoir for SARS-CoV-2 persistence. The results will not only determine whether obesity and IR are risk factors for PASC, but will also define fundamental biology that sets the stage for the investigation of novel or existing therapies that target the causal pathways identified.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–80 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 18 to 80 * BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 * not currently pregnant Exclusion Criteria: Arm 2 (Adipose Tissue Biopsy) exclusions include * pregnancy * prior liposuction * recent change in weight (\> 2 kg in one month) * bleeding disorders * anticoagulant use Arm 3 (healthy controls only) exclusions include patients with * major organ disease * diabetes * history of liposuction * bariatric surgery * eating disorders * psychiatric disorders * pregnancy or lactation * recent change in weight (over the past 12 weeks), * use of weight loss medication or oral steroids * hematocrit \<…
Interventions
- ProcedureAdipose Tissue Biopsy
After an overnight fast, approximately 1-2 grams of subcutaneous fat will be removed by a needle. Participants will have a local anesthetic prior to the procedure. The needle fat biopsy will be repeated at quarterly intervals for one year (every 3 months). We will also draw 1 10mL tube of blood at each biopsy for measurement of inflammatory cytokines.
- Diagnostic TestSteady State Plasma Glucose (SSPG) Test
An Insulin Sensitivity Test (SSPG: Steady State Plasma Glucose) is performed to determine if participants are insulin sensitive or insulin resistant. This test is approximately 5-6 hours in length. Participants will be asked to fast for 12 hours. The insulin sensitivity test is designed to measure how well your cells remove glucose from your blood in response to insulin. During this test participants will have two small catheters (tubing) placed in their veins (I.V. lines). The total amount of blood that will be drawn during this test will be 140 mL of blood (approximately 9.5 tablespoons). Insulin is a natural hormone, and octreotide (a synthetic hormone) is a drug that temporarily blocks the secretion of insulin from your pancreas. A member of the research team is present and monitoring the results along with the nursing staff.
Locations (2)
- Clinical and Translational Research UnitPalo Alto, California
- Stanford HealthPalo Alto, California