Developing small peptides to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants
Official title: Broadly neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 peptidic knobs
Funded at Applied Biomedical Science Institute · NIH-11097381 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new tiny proteins made from cow antibodies that could help fight the COVID-19 virus and its variants, and they might be given in different ways, like through inhalation, to help keep you safe and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Applied Biomedical Science Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | June 9, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $921,025 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173109-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097381 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of COVID-19 infection, including those with underlying health conditions or those exposed to the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for COVID-19 or those who have already been vaccinated may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating small, stable peptides that can effectively neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 virus, including its variants like delta and omicron. By utilizing peptides derived from unique cow antibodies, the team aims to produce these molecules in a way that retains their high binding affinity and potency against the virus. The peptides are designed to be administered through various routes, potentially including inhalation, making them a versatile option for both treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Patients may benefit from these innovative therapies that could provide a new way to combat the virus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for COVID-19 that are easy to administer and highly potent against multiple variants.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using peptide-based therapies for viral neutralization, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Applied Biomedical Science Institute
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smider, Vaughn Vasil — Applied Biomedical Science Institute
- Study coordinator: Smider, Vaughn Vasil
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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.