Investigating exosomal ACE2 for treating COVID-19

Clinical analysis and therapeutic development of exosomal ACE2

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10888159

This study is looking at a protein in the blood of COVID-19 patients to see if it can help create new treatments and tests that identify people at risk for severe illness, with the hope of blocking the virus from entering cells and preventing infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10888159 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how exosomal ACE2, a protein found in the blood of COVID-19 patients, can be used to develop new treatments for the disease. By analyzing the levels of ACE2 in exosomes, the researchers aim to create a clinical assay that can help identify patients at risk for severe COVID-19. Additionally, they are exploring the potential of exosomal ACE2 as a therapeutic agent that could block the virus from entering cells, thereby preventing infection. This innovative approach seeks to address the challenges posed by current and future strains of coronaviruses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, particularly those experiencing severe symptoms or at high risk for complications.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with COVID-19 or those with mild symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that improve outcomes for patients with COVID-19 and potentially other coronavirus infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomarkers for treatment strategies in viral infections, making this approach both innovative and grounded in prior success.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 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.