How the coronavirus spike protein looks and moves
Structure and Dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Researchers are looking at how the coronavirus spike protein changes shape and how antibodies and the ACE2 receptor attach, to help vaccines and tests work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099910 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Scientists will take very detailed 3D pictures of the coronavirus spike protein using cryo-electron microscopy and cryo-electron tomography and will measure how the spike moves in real time. They will study both isolated spike proteins and spikes on virus particles, and test how the human ACE2 receptor and different antibodies bind to the spike’s different shapes. By mapping the different conformations and their dynamics, researchers aim to identify the forms that best trigger protective antibodies and to guide vaccine and diagnostic design.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had COVID-19 or who are willing to donate blood, plasma, or nasal/throat samples for laboratory research would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: This is lab-focused research, so it will not provide immediate clinical treatment or direct medical benefit to participants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to better vaccines, improved antibody treatments, and more accurate diagnostic tests for COVID-19.
How similar studies have performed: Other groups have used cryo-EM to reveal spike structures that informed vaccine design, but measuring real-time spike dynamics and detailed antibody engagement is less established and still being explored.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mothes, Walther H — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Mothes, Walther H
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.