mRNA-delivered Cas13 treatment for multiple lung viruses
mRNA-encoded Cas13 as a pan-respiratory antiviral
This project is developing an inhaled mRNA therapy that uses Cas13 to destroy the RNA of RSV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2 in the lungs for people at risk of these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11248356 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work is creating an inhaled medicine made from synthetic mRNA that tells cells to make Cas13, a programmable enzyme that cuts up viral RNA. The team programs Cas13 to target key RNA sequences from RSV, influenza, and SARS‑CoV‑2 and is optimizing a nebulizer to deliver the mRNA to the lungs. They have shown proof-of-concept in laboratory and animal experiments and are refining safety, dosing, and delivery for future human testing. The goal is a single, broad antiviral that works across common respiratory viruses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would include people with or recently exposed to RSV, influenza, or COVID-19 who are eligible for enrollment in future clinical trials testing inhaled Cas13 therapies.
Not a fit: People with non-RNA respiratory conditions, those who cannot use inhaled treatments, or those with allergies to components of mRNA formulations may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could become a single inhaled treatment that quickly lowers virus levels and reduces severe illness from several common respiratory viruses.
How similar studies have performed: Related lab and animal studies, including early work by this team using nebulizer delivery, have shown proof-of-concept, but human safety and effectiveness remain untested.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Santangelo, Philip J — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Santangelo, Philip J
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 below.