Investigating a genetic marker that may increase susceptibility to COVID-19 in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Mechanistic Characterization of the IBD Risk Gene, PTPN2, as a Novel Susceptibility Marker for Increased SARS-CoV-2 Infection

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE · NIH-10642957

This study is looking at how a specific gene might make people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) more likely to get COVID-19, and it will also explore if a medication called tofacitinib can help reduce that risk.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10642957 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific genetic variant, PTPN2, may increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study aims to explore the mechanisms by which this genetic marker affects the expression of ACE2, a receptor that the virus uses to enter cells. By examining intestinal biopsies and using various models, researchers will assess whether the use of a clinically approved JAK inhibitor, tofacitinib, can mitigate this increased susceptibility. Patients with IBD may have a unique response to COVID-19, and this research seeks to clarify those dynamics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease who may carry the PTPN2 genetic variant.

Not a fit: Patients without inflammatory bowel disease or those not carrying the PTPN2 variant may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of COVID-19 risks in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promising results regarding the role of PTPN2 in susceptibility to viral infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, autoimmune disorder, autoimmunity disease, Celiac Disease, Coeliac Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.