Blocking a cell enzyme to stop COVID‑19 and calm dangerous inflammation
Optimizing a small molecule inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 replication and associated cytokine storm
Researchers are developing an oral medicine that blocks a cell enzyme to reduce SARS‑CoV‑2 infection and the harmful cytokine storm in people with COVID‑19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11181041 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team is creating small molecule drugs that target the enzyme PI4KIIIb, which the coronavirus uses to enter and replicate in cells. In the lab the lead compound (STF‑1019) strongly reduced SARS‑CoV‑2 levels and lowered inflammatory IL‑6 release from human immune cells, and it showed activity in animal infection models for related viruses. Scientists are optimizing the compound’s metabolism and formulation so it can be given by mouth without needing a separate booster drug. The current work includes cell studies, use of human blood immune cells, and animal testing as steps toward an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal future trial candidates would be adults with a recent confirmed SARS‑CoV‑2 infection, especially those at higher risk of progressing to severe COVID‑19.
Not a fit: People without COVID‑19 or those who cannot take the study drug or required metabolic boosters (because of allergies or dangerous drug interactions) would not be expected to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could become an oral antiviral that both lowers viral load and reduces the severe inflammatory response that causes hospitalization in COVID‑19 patients.
How similar studies have performed: This host‑targeting approach is relatively novel for SARS‑CoV‑2, though the lead compound showed prior animal efficacy against related viruses and similar antiviral strategies have shown promise in preclinical work.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Glenn, Jeffrey S — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Glenn, Jeffrey S
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 below.