Targeting a key protein to block COVID-19 and respiratory viruses

TMPRSS2 as a potential target for treatments of COVID-19 and respiratory infectious viruses in lung

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10913504

This study is testing a new treatment that aims to stop COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses from getting into lung cells by blocking a specific protein, and it's designed for people who want to help improve outcomes for those affected by these viruses.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10913504 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new antiviral treatment aimed at preventing COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses from entering lung cells. The approach involves targeting a specific protein called TMPRSS2, which the virus uses to gain access to cells in the lungs. By inhibiting this protein, the researchers hope to stop the virus from infecting lung cells, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients suffering from COVID-19. The study will utilize advanced techniques to test the effectiveness of this treatment in laboratory settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for severe COVID-19, such as those with underlying health conditions or those who are unvaccinated.

Not a fit: Patients who have already recovered from COVID-19 and have developed immunity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new antiviral therapy that significantly reduces the severity and spread of COVID-19.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting viral entry mechanisms, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.