Investigating how COVID-19 affects lung disease through genetic models

Genetic Investigation of Covid 19 in Lung Disease

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10906887

This study is looking at how COVID-19 can seriously affect the lungs, using special mouse models to see how the virus interacts with lung cells and causes problems like severe breathing issues, so we can better understand what happens in the body during the illness.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906887 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which COVID-19 leads to severe lung disease. By using advanced genetic mouse models that express the human ACE2 protein, the study aims to identify how the virus interacts with lung cells and causes conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome. The researchers will explore various pathogenic mechanisms, including direct infection of lung cells and the role of blood vessel complications. This approach will provide crucial insights into the cellular functions involved in COVID-19 lung disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced severe respiratory issues due to COVID-19 or are at high risk for such complications.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been affected by COVID-19 or do not have underlying respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments and preventive strategies for COVID-19 related lung diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using genetic models to study viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions Acute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.