New tools to diagnose COVID-19 in animals and understand its spread between species
Novel diagnostic tools and animal model system for study human/animal interface of COVID-19
This study is working on new ways to test for COVID-19 in animals, especially cats, to help us understand how the virus spreads between humans and animals, which will be useful for vets and pet owners in keeping everyone safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908520 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative diagnostic tools and animal models to study the transmission of COVID-19 between humans and animals. It aims to create specific reagents and assays for detecting the virus in various animal species, particularly felids like domestic cats and big cats. By establishing a feline model, the research will help understand how the virus behaves in animals and the risks associated with animal infections. The findings will be valuable for veterinarians, animal care professionals, and the general public in managing and preventing COVID-19 transmission.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include veterinarians, animal care professionals, and pet owners concerned about COVID-19 in animals.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have pets or are not involved in animal care may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our ability to detect and control COVID-19 in animal populations, ultimately reducing the risk of transmission to humans.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in developing diagnostic tools for animal diseases, indicating a promising potential for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fang, Ying — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Fang, Ying
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.