How SARS-CoV-2 copies its genetic material
Coronavirus RNA synthesis by multicomponent protein machines
Researchers are looking inside the coronavirus's molecular machinery to find weak spots that could lead to better drugs for people with COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11316968 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project digs into the proteins the coronavirus uses to copy and proofread its RNA, focusing on specific parts called nsp14 and the NiRAN domain of nsp12. Scientists will use lab techniques like biochemistry, cell biology, chemical probes, and cryo-electron microscopy to see how these protein pieces fit together and work. The team will test how existing antiviral drugs affect these machines and search for new molecular targets and compounds. The work is lab-based and aims to provide the molecular detail needed to guide future drug development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant supports basic laboratory research and does not appear to enroll patients or require patient participation.
Not a fit: People currently sick with COVID-19 are unlikely to receive direct or immediate treatment benefit from this preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify new targets or mechanisms that lead to more effective antiviral drugs for COVID-19.
How similar studies have performed: Prior structural and biochemical studies of coronavirus replication machinery have informed antiviral development (for example polymerase-targeting drugs), so this builds on proven laboratory approaches while seeking new targets.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kirchdoerfer, Robert N — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Kirchdoerfer, Robert N
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 below.