Developing new nanobodies to combat coronavirus variants
Official title: Synergistic Nanobodies for Pandemic Preparedness
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-11104036 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new treatments using tiny proteins from llamas to help fight off different strains of coronaviruses, including the one that causes COVID-19, by making them more effective against changes in the virus, and they can be given through the nose or lungs to help keep people healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 24, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $867,563 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI189657-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11104036 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for severe outcomes from coronavirus infections, such as those with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by beta coronaviruses or those who have already been vaccinated and have robust immunity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative nanobodies derived from llamas' immune systems to effectively target and neutralize various strains of beta coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. By engineering these nanobodies to be multivalent and synergistic, the project aims to enhance their effectiveness against viral mutations and provide both preventive and therapeutic options. The nanobodies can be administered intranasally or directly to the lungs, offering a novel approach to pandemic preparedness and treatment. The research employs advanced techniques to identify and characterize a diverse range of nanobodies that can combat the evolving nature of these viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments and preventive measures against current and future coronavirus outbreaks.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using nanobodies for targeting viruses, indicating that this approach could be effective, though the specific application to beta coronaviruses is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rout, Michael P — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Rout, Michael P
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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.