Developing antiviral drugs to combat enterovirus D68 infections
Characterization of Enterovirus 68 3C Protease For the Development of Robust and Potent Direct-Acting Antiviral Inhibitors
This study is working on creating new medicines to help treat children with severe respiratory illness caused by the enterovirus D68, by targeting a specific part of the virus that helps it grow, so we can find effective treatments that won't easily stop working.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11034062 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enterovirus D68 (EV68), a virus that can cause severe respiratory illness and neurological complications in children. The project aims to develop direct-acting antiviral inhibitors that target the 3C protease of EV68, which is crucial for the virus's ability to replicate. By designing small molecule inhibitors that fit within a specific three-dimensional structure of the protease, the research seeks to create effective treatments that are less likely to encounter drug resistance. The approach involves detailed biochemical assays and structural analysis to ensure the inhibitors are robust and potent against the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk of or suffering from enterovirus D68 infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those with infections caused by other viruses unrelated to enterovirus D68 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective antiviral medications for treating infections caused by enterovirus D68, potentially reducing severe health outcomes in affected children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing antiviral inhibitors targeting similar viral proteases, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Azzolino, Vincent — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Azzolino, Vincent
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 below.