Creating DNA structures to block COVID-19 virus infection
Official title: Programming designer DNA nanostructures for blocking enveloped viral infection
Funded at Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge · NIH-10888153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to create tiny DNA structures that can trap and stop the COVID-19 virus from infecting people, aiming to develop safe and affordable treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baton Rouge, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $228,149 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI166898-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888153 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for COVID-19 infection, including those with underlying health conditions or exposure to the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for COVID-19 or those who have already been vaccinated may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative DNA nanostructures designed to block the infection of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. By utilizing the unique structure of the virus's spike proteins, the researchers aim to create a macromolecular 'net' that can capture and neutralize the virus effectively. The approach involves engineering DNA to match the precise layout of the spike proteins, enhancing the ability to bind and prevent the virus from infecting cells. This could lead to affordable and biocompatible antiviral treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new method for preventing COVID-19 infections, potentially leading to better control of the pandemic.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using DNA nanostructures is innovative, similar strategies in targeting viral infections have shown promise in preliminary studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Weishan — Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
- Study coordinator: Huang, Weishan
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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.