Investigating the spike protein of the coronavirus
Official title: Structural investigations of coronavirus spike protein
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11056248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the coronavirus called the spike protein helps the virus get into our cells and how vaccines can change this process, with the goal of finding ways to make vaccines work better for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $247,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI183188-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 or those who have been infected with the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to coronaviruses or have not received any form of vaccination may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the spike (S) protein of coronaviruses, particularly how it enables the virus to enter and infect host cells. The study examines the synthesis and trafficking of the S protein in infected cells and those that have received genetic vaccines. By exploring the role of N-glycans in modulating the immune response and the structural changes in the S protein, the research aims to uncover how these factors influence vaccine effectiveness and infection outcomes. This could provide insights into improving vaccine design and efficacy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced vaccines and treatments for COVID-19 and other coronaviruses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral proteins and their role in immune responses, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hasan, Syed Saif — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Hasan, Syed Saif
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.