Peptide blockers to stop COVID-19 spread
Fusion inhibitors that block host-to-host transmission of SARS-CoV-2
Researchers are developing lipid‑attached peptide antivirals meant to stop SARS‑CoV‑2 from entering cells and reduce person‑to‑person spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11380521 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project makes and refines lipid‑conjugated peptides that bind the coronavirus spike and block the virus from fusing with human cells. The peptides will be tested in laboratory assays and against live SARS‑CoV‑2 virus, and leading candidates will be evaluated in a ferret transmission model to see if they prevent spread. Promising compounds could move toward safety testing in people. The current work is preclinical (lab and animal) and does not enroll patients now.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: In the future, ideal candidates would be people recently exposed to SARS‑CoV‑2 or those seeking short‑term protection from infection.
Not a fit: People with advanced, late‑stage COVID‑19 needing hospital-level care are unlikely to benefit from a drug that primarily blocks viral entry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these inhibitors could become a new antiviral option to prevent COVID‑19 infection or transmission.
How similar studies have performed: Related lipopeptide fusion inhibitors have shown strong antiviral effects in laboratory and animal tests but are not yet established treatments in humans.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Porotto, Matteo — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Porotto, Matteo
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.