Creating a 3D human lung model to study COVID-19

Embedded Printing of Human Respiratory Model with Air-Liquid Interface for COVID-19 Research

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-10671456

This study is creating a 3D model of human lungs to better understand how COVID-19 affects them and to test if current antiviral drugs work well, which could help improve treatments for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10671456 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a three-dimensional (3D) human respiratory model that mimics the conditions of the lungs using an air-liquid interface. This model will help scientists understand how the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes lung damage and will facilitate the testing of existing antiviral drugs for their effectiveness against COVID-19. By using human cells, the model aims to provide more accurate results compared to traditional animal models. Patients may benefit from the insights gained, which could lead to improved treatments for COVID-19.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by COVID-19 or those at high risk of severe disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by COVID-19 or do not have underlying respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for COVID-19 patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully utilized 3D human models to study respiratory diseases, indicating a promising approach for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.