Creating new proteins to fight COVID-19 and future viruses

De Novo Design of Minibinder Antagonists for COVID-19 and Future Pandemics

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-10889044

This study is working on creating new, affordable treatments for COVID-19 that can help stop the virus from making you sick and reduce harmful immune reactions, so it's aimed at anyone who wants better options for fighting the virus.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10889044 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing effective and affordable treatments for COVID-19 by designing proteins that can target the virus and reduce severe immune responses. Using advanced computational methods, the team aims to create minibinder proteins that can bind to critical parts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, preventing it from infecting cells. Additionally, the research seeks to develop proteins that can mitigate the harmful effects of cytokine storms, which can occur during severe infections. The goal is to have these treatments ready quickly in response to new viral outbreaks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for severe COVID-19 or those who may benefit from new antiviral treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by COVID-19 or similar viral infections may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking therapies that save lives during COVID-19 and future pandemics.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using computational design for protein therapeutics, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.