Together with clinical partners, we have developed a novel, non-invasive urine test that can detect Long-COVID at the molecular level. This approach analyzes protein fragments (peptides) in urine, providing the first objective, measurable basis for diagnosing post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC).

Precision Diagnostics through Peptidomics

The study analyzed urine samples from 100 participants – 50 individuals with Long-COVID, approximately ten months after infection, and 50 control participants without COVID-19-related symptoms. Using capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry (CE-MS) technology, we identified 195 peptides that were significantly altered in Long-COVID patients.

This peptide combination, named PASC195, formed the basis of a machine-learning diagnostic model, which identified Long-COVID cases with over 95% accuracy. For the first time, this method provides an objective, biological tool to distinguish Long-COVID from similar conditions, such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).

New Insights into the Mechanisms of Long-COVID

Many of the altered peptides identified originate from collagen alpha chains, a key component of connective tissue. These findings suggest that Long COVID may be linked to disruptions in collagen regulation, persistent inflammation, and vascular damage.

Furthermore, in-silico analyses indicate that certain drugs—including GLP-1 receptor agonists and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists—could serve as effective therapeutic strategies for Long COVID.

Driving Innovation in Personalized Medicine

By leveraging advanced proteomics technology, we contribute to unraveling complex disease mechanisms and developing patient-centered, personalized diagnostic solutions.

With this new urine test, Long-COVID diagnosis can become faster, more precise, and patient-friendly – providing much-needed clarity for millions of affected individuals worldwide.

The original manuscript can be found here.