How the coronavirus spike protein affects airway sensory nerves
Official title: Vagal airway sensory nerve activation by beta-coronavirus spike protein
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10934330 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the spike protein from coronaviruses affects certain nerves in the airways that cause sneezing and coughing, which can help the virus spread, and it aims to find out if the virus directly affects these nerves or if it uses other signals to do so, especially to better understand how it impacts kids with asthma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32HL170490-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10934330 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 12 years old who experience respiratory symptoms related to viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have respiratory issues or are over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the spike protein of coronaviruses activates sensory nerves in the airway, particularly focusing on nociceptive C-fibers. These nerves are responsible for symptoms like sneezing and coughing, which can help the virus spread. The study aims to understand whether the virus directly stimulates these nerves or if it triggers other mediators that do so. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover new insights into how respiratory viruses exacerbate conditions like asthma, especially in children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate respiratory symptoms and improve outcomes for children with asthma and other airway conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the interaction between viruses and sensory nerves can lead to significant advancements in treating respiratory conditions, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Joyce Sooyeon — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kim, Joyce Sooyeon
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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.