Creating new drugs to fight COVID-19 using advanced technology

Developing three-dimensional antisense oligonucleotide drugs against COVID-19

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10883731

This study is working on new drugs that could help fight COVID-19 by targeting the virus's genetic material, and if successful, these drugs could offer better treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10883731 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative drugs called antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that target the RNA of the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19. By utilizing a unique three-dimensional design approach, these ASOs can bind more effectively to the viral RNA, potentially improving their ability to inhibit the virus's replication. The study aims to enhance the specificity and affinity of these drugs, making them more effective than traditional ASO designs. Patients may benefit from these advancements if the drugs prove successful in clinical applications.

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 illness from the virus.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with COVID-19 or who have already recovered from the virus may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for COVID-19, potentially reducing the severity and duration of the illness.

How similar studies have performed: While antisense oligonucleotide therapies are a relatively new approach, previous research has shown promise in using ASOs for other viral infections, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-13 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.