New treatments to block COVID-19 virus entry into cells
Official title: Novel Peptide Fusion Inhibitors for the Treatment of COVID-19
Funded at Eldec Pharmaceuticals, INC. · NIH-10379832 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to stop the COVID-19 virus from getting into our cells, which could help people who are at risk, especially those affected by things like tobacco smoke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Eldec Pharmaceuticals, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 23, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $300,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R41AI162083-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10379832 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for severe COVID-19, including those with underlying health conditions or exposure to risk factors like tobacco smoke.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for COVID-19 or those who have already recovered from the virus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing novel peptide fusion inhibitors that can prevent the SARS-CoV-2 virus from entering human cells, which is crucial for treating COVID-19. The approach involves targeting the interaction between the virus's spike protein and the ACE2 receptor on airway epithelial cells, which are particularly vulnerable to infection. By understanding the structural changes that occur during viral entry, the researchers aim to create effective antiviral agents that can disrupt this process. The study also considers how factors like tobacco smoke may increase susceptibility to COVID-19, providing insights into patient risk factors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral treatments that significantly reduce the severity and spread of COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing antiviral agents targeting viral entry mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Eldec Pharmaceuticals, INC.
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tarran, Robert — Eldec Pharmaceuticals, INC.
- Study coordinator: Tarran, Robert
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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.