Investigating how SARS-CoV-2 can develop resistance to antiviral treatments
Official title: Multidisciplinary studies on overcoming SARS-CoV-2 main protease drug resistance and on fitness costs
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11071374 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the COVID-19 virus can change in ways that make it harder to treat with antiviral medications like Paxlovid, so we can find better treatment options for patients in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI179181-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071374 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been treated for COVID-19 and may have developed resistance to current antiviral therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those who are not undergoing antiviral treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19, can develop resistance to antiviral drugs like Paxlovid. The study examines the main protease of the virus, which is crucial for its replication, and how mutations can affect the virus's ability to be treated effectively. By identifying specific mutations that confer resistance, the research aims to inform the development of new antiviral therapies that can overcome these challenges. Patients may benefit from improved treatment options as a result of this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective antiviral treatments for COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding viral resistance mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Neilsen, Grace — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Neilsen, Grace
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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.