Investigating the spike proteins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in real-time
Official title: Real-time structural and functional studies of SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10931382 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the spike protein of the COVID-19 virus interacts with our cells and antibodies, using special imaging techniques to help us find better ways to diagnose and treat COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $389,821 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150528-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931382 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by COVID-19 or those at high risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by COVID-19 or who have already recovered from the virus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the spike glycoprotein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is crucial for the virus's entry into human cells. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe the dynamic interactions of the spike protein with human receptors and neutralizing antibodies in real-time. This approach will help to better understand how the virus infects cells and how it can be targeted by treatments. The findings could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for COVID-19.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments and vaccines for COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using structural studies to understand viral proteins, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lin, Yi-Chih — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Lin, Yi-Chih
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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.