Understanding genetic factors that affect COVID-19 severity
Genetic Analysis of COVID-19 Susceptibility and Resistance Determinants in the Collaborative Cross
This study is looking at how our genes might affect how badly we get sick from COVID-19, using special mice to help understand this better, so that one day we can find out who might be at higher risk and create better treatments and vaccines for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10848418 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic differences influence susceptibility and resistance to COVID-19, particularly focusing on the development of animal models that mimic human disease. By studying the Collaborative Cross mice, which exhibit varied responses to the virus, researchers aim to uncover the genetic determinants that lead to severe outcomes like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The findings could help identify at-risk populations and inform the development of targeted therapies and vaccines. Patients may benefit from insights gained about their own genetic risk factors for severe COVID-19.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of severe COVID-19 symptoms or those with underlying health conditions that may increase their risk.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with COVID-19 or those with mild or asymptomatic cases may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of COVID-19, potentially improving treatment strategies for patients at risk of severe disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using genetic analysis to understand disease susceptibility, making this approach promising for COVID-19 as well.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heise, Mark T — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Heise, Mark T
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.