Investigating how drugs can block the entry of the COVID-19 virus into respiratory cells
Official title: Defining Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 Entry Inhibitors in the Respiratory Epithelium
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10899034 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the COVID-19 virus gets into our respiratory cells and is testing different drugs to see if they can stop this process, which could help create new treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI183630-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899034 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals at high risk for COVID-19 infection, such as those with underlying respiratory conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for COVID-19 or who have already been vaccinated may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the SARS-CoV-2 virus enters respiratory cells, which is crucial for developing effective treatments. The study examines the role of specific proteins, such as ACE2 and TMPRSS2, in the viral entry process and tests various drugs to see if they can inhibit this entry. By using a cell line that mimics human respiratory cells, the researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic agents that could prevent COVID-19 infection. Patients may benefit from insights gained into new antiviral strategies that could be developed from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs that effectively prevent COVID-19 infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in identifying antiviral drugs targeting viral entry mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Acuna, Jorge Alberto — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Acuna, Jorge Alberto
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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.