Developing small molecule drugs to inhibit a key enzyme of the SARS-CoV-2 virus

Small Molecule Inhibitors Against 3C-Like Protease of SARS-CoV-2

['FUNDING_R01'] · KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10849716

This study is looking for new medicines that can stop the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, from making copies of itself, and it's for anyone interested in better treatments for the virus.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MANHATTAN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10849716 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating small molecule inhibitors that target the 3C-like protease of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is essential for the virus's replication. The approach involves screening various compounds to identify those that can effectively inhibit this protease, thereby preventing the virus from multiplying. The research utilizes advanced techniques, including high-resolution crystal structure analysis, to understand how these inhibitors interact with the virus at a molecular level. If successful, these inhibitors could serve as antiviral treatments for COVID-19 and other related coronavirus infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of severe COVID-19 infection or those who have been diagnosed with COVID-19.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those who have already recovered from COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective antiviral drugs for treating COVID-19 and potentially other coronavirus infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in developing antiviral compounds targeting similar proteases in other coronaviruses, indicating a promising avenue for this approach.

Where this research is happening

MANHATTAN, 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 →

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.