Targeting a protein to help older adults with COVID-19
Official title: Targeting galectin-3 to intervene COVID-19
Funded at Glycomantra, INC. · NIH-10685248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called galectin-3 to see how it might help the COVID-19 virus stick to cells, especially in older adults and people with diabetes or high blood pressure, to find out if targeting this protein could help reduce the risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Glycomantra, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Halethorpe, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $296,637 |
| NIH project number | 5R43AI162182-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10685248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those with diabetes or hypertension.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have diabetes or hypertension may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of galectin-3, a protein that may enhance the attachment of the COVID-19 virus to cells, particularly in older adults and those with diabetes or hypertension. The study aims to understand how galectin-3 contributes to the severity of COVID-19 in these populations and whether targeting this protein can reduce the risk of severe illness. By analyzing the interactions between galectin-3 and the virus, researchers hope to develop new therapeutic strategies that could improve outcomes for vulnerable patients. The approach includes biological assays to measure galectin-3 levels and its effects on viral infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the severity of COVID-19 in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting galectin-3 is a novel approach, similar strategies have shown promise in other viral infections, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Glycomantra, INC.
Halethorpe, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ahmed, Hafiz — Glycomantra, INC.
- Study coordinator: Ahmed, Hafiz
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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.