Discovery of SARS-CoV-2 antivirals using a replicon assay
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11391021 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are developing new antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2 using a high-throughput replicon system to screen compounds in a safe, non-infectious setup.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $695,135 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI167356-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11391021 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with COVID-19 or those at risk of infection may benefit from future antiviral therapies discovered through this research.
✕Less likely to help
The current grant focuses on early drug discovery and may not directly benefit patients during the study period.
What this research studies
This project uses SARS-CoV-2 replicon models and engineered cell lines to screen chemical libraries for potential antiviral drugs. It combines rapid screening with detailed visualization of viral RNA and proteins in infected cells, plus preliminary testing in high-containment BSL3 assays. The aim is to identify novel antivirals that could work even as viral variants spread, potentially expanding treatment options beyond remdesivir. If successful, the work could accelerate development of treatments that help people with COVID-19 stay out of the hospital.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with COVID-19 could gain access to new antiviral options that reduce illness and mortality.
How similar studies have gone: Previous antiviral discovery efforts have yielded candidate compounds, but this project emphasizes rapid replicon-based screening and validation in cells, representing a strategic expansion.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sarafianos, Stefan G — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Sarafianos, Stefan G
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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.