Stronger, broader antibody protection against coronaviruses
Multidimensional antibody engineering to enhance the potency and breadth of a betacoronavirus medical countermeasure
['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · EITR BIOLOGICS, INC. · NIH-11291622
Creating long-lasting antibody treatments to protect people, especially those with weakened immune systems, from current and future coronaviruses.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EITR BIOLOGICS, INC. (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11291622 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be hearing about work to design engineered monoclonal antibodies that stay in the body longer and can neutralize many coronavirus variants. Scientists will change antibody features to improve how well they bind viral spike proteins and how long they remain active, then test those changes in the lab and in animal models before any human testing. The project aims to build a ready-to-use medical countermeasure for people who cannot make a strong vaccine response and to cover related viruses like MERS. If the program advances to clinical trials, these antibodies could be given directly to people to provide immediate protection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with weakened immune systems who do not respond well to vaccines or people at high risk of severe coronavirus infection would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People who already mount strong vaccine responses or those with known allergic reactions to monoclonal antibody therapies may not gain additional benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could offer immediate, long-lasting protection for immunocompromised people and broader defense against new coronavirus variants.
How similar studies have performed: Monoclonal antibody treatments have helped prevent or treat COVID-19 before, but many lost potency as variants emerged, so extending half-life and broadening coverage is a promising but still-developing approach.
Where this research is happening
SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES
- EITR BIOLOGICS, INC. — SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BORNHOLDT, ZACHARY A — EITR BIOLOGICS, INC.
- Study coordinator: BORNHOLDT, ZACHARY A
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.