A new nasal treatment to protect against airborne RNA viruses

A universal intranasal nanoengineered therapy against airborne RNA viruses

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11131083

This study is testing a new nasal treatment that uses tiny particles to help your body fight off airborne viruses like COVID-19 quickly, aiming to protect you right where these viruses enter.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11131083 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel intranasal therapy using engineered nanoparticles to provide rapid protection against airborne RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2. The approach aims to activate the body's innate immune response in the nasal epithelium, which is the primary entry point for these viruses. By delivering this therapy directly to the nasal cavity, the researchers hope to neutralize the virus early, potentially reducing viral load and transmission. This innovative method addresses the urgent need for effective antiviral prophylaxis during outbreaks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk of exposure to airborne RNA viruses, such as healthcare workers or those living in crowded environments.

Not a fit: Patients who are already infected with airborne RNA viruses or those with severe respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a universal antiviral treatment that protects patients from severe respiratory infections caused by airborne viruses.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using nasal delivery systems for antiviral therapies, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Advanced Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.