Designing small proteins to block viral infections
Official title: Computational design and development of small protein inhibitors
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11045753 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on developing tiny proteins that can help stop viruses, like the coronavirus and RSV, from entering human cells, which could lead to new treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $734,649 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI180127-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045753 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of severe viral infections, particularly those affected by coronaviruses or RSV.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections that do not involve the targeted viruses or those who are not at risk of severe outcomes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating small, stable proteins that can inhibit the fusion of viruses with human cells, which is a critical step in viral infection. By using advanced computational methods and experimental approaches, the team will develop and test these miniprotein inhibitors against various viruses, including the coronavirus and RSV. The research will involve evaluating the effectiveness of these inhibitors in cell cultures and animal models, assessing their dosage, delivery methods, and potential side effects. Patients may benefit from new antiviral treatments that could emerge from this innovative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective antiviral therapies that prevent viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using small proteins as antiviral agents, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Strauch, Eva-Maria — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Strauch, Eva-Maria
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.