Developing small molecule inhibitors to fight SARS-CoV-2

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

['FUNDING_R01'] · KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10670145

This study is working on new medicines that could help stop the COVID-19 virus from making copies of itself, which could lead to better treatments for people who are infected.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MANHATTAN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10670145 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating small molecule inhibitors that target the 3C-like protease of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. By inhibiting this protease, the research aims to prevent the virus from replicating, which is crucial for developing effective antiviral treatments. The approach involves testing these compounds in cell cultures and animal models to assess their efficacy against coronaviruses. If successful, these inhibitors could provide new therapeutic options for patients infected with COVID-19.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are infected with SARS-CoV-2 or are at high risk of severe COVID-19 disease.

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 coronaviruses, indicating a promising avenue for treatment.

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.