How a human protein can block the entry of the COVID-19 virus
Official title: Entry inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 by human LRRC15
Funded at Brown University · NIH-10886525 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein in our bodies called LRRC15 to see if it can help stop the COVID-19 virus from getting into our cells, which could lead to new ways to protect people from the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | July 12, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $242,350 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173821-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10886525 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 have already been infected with COVID-19 and are seeking treatment for existing symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a human protein called LRRC15 can inhibit the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. The study focuses on the interaction between LRRC15 and the spike protein of the virus, specifically how it binds to the receptor ACE2, which is crucial for the virus to enter human cells. By understanding this interaction, researchers aim to identify new therapeutic strategies that could prevent the virus from infecting cells. The approach includes binding assays and cellular models to evaluate the effectiveness of LRRC15 in blocking viral entry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent COVID-19 infection by blocking the virus's ability to enter human cells.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting viral entry is established, the specific role of LRRC15 in inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior research.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Sanghyun — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Lee, Sanghyun
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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.