Oral small molecule inhibitors to block SARS-CoV-2 RNA replication
Official title: Oral small molecule inhibitors of NSP4-mediated membrane-associated RNA replication of SARS-CoV-2 and other RNA viruses
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11587830 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A Stanford-led project tests a pill that could stop SARS-CoV-2 and related viruses from copying their RNA inside infected cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | May 16, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,625,734 |
| NIH project number | 4U19AI171421-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11587830 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be individuals with SARS-CoV-2 or related RNA-virus infections who could participate in early preclinical to clinical transition studies when appropriate.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without infection by SARS-CoV-2 or related viruses, or those with contraindications to the compound, may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on turning a promising small-molecule inhibitor into a potential antiviral medicine. Researchers study an oral compound that interferes with NSP4, a viral protein needed for membrane structures where the virus replicates. The work includes laboratory experiments and preclinical steps to show the drug can block replication without harming healthy cells. If successful, the approach could lead to a new oral treatment for COVID-19 and similar RNA viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could become an oral treatment that reduces viral replication and helps patients recover more quickly.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work on similar viral proteins and compounds has shown potential to inhibit replication, supporting a cautious, stepwise advancement.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Glenn, Jeffrey S — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Glenn, Jeffrey S
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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.