Antiviral drug development against Zika virus focusing on NS4B
Official title: Optimization of a novel and effective antiviral agent targeting Zika NS4B
Funded at University of Louisville · NIH-11503479 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are developing a new oral medicine to fight Zika virus by targeting a key viral protein, aiming to help people at risk of severe Zika outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $139,920 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AI195717-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11503479 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults with or at risk of Zika exposure who may benefit from future antiviral therapies under development.
✕Less likely to help
This specific preclinical work will not yet benefit patients directly until a candidate advances to human trials.
What this research studies
This project seeks to create a small-m molecule therapy that inhibits Zika’s NS4B protein, a driver of viral replication, with the goal of reducing illness severity and transmission. The team has identified a benzamide-based lead compound that works in cells without harming the host cells, and is studying how it may block the viral replicase complex. Key work includes optimizing potency and drug-like properties, selecting a lead candidate, and testing oral dosing in Zika-infected mice to ensure safety and efficacy before any clinical steps. The effort combines genetic, biochemical, and virological assays to understand how the compound works and to move toward a preclinical therapeutic candidate. If successful, this could provide a new option to mitigate Zika-related health risks for patients and communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A new oral antiviral could reduce Zika illness, prevent severe outcomes, and limit spread in at-risk populations.
How similar studies have gone: Similar antiviral programs against flaviviruses have shown promise in preclinical models, supporting continued development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Louisville
Louisville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chung, Donghoon — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Chung, Donghoon
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.