Understanding how a specific protein affects immune responses during COVID-19 infection
Official title: SAMHD1-mediated regulation of innate immunity during SARS-CoV-2 infection
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11050875 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called SAMHD1 affects the immune system's response to COVID-19, especially in older adults who are at greater risk, to help find better ways to treat or prevent the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $188,544 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI181742-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11050875 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly older adults, who are at risk of severe COVID-19 infection or have been diagnosed with the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by COVID-19 or do not have underlying immune system issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called SAMHD1 in regulating the immune response during SARS-CoV-2 infection, which causes COVID-19. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms by which SAMHD1 influences both innate and adaptive immunity, particularly in aging populations who are more vulnerable to severe outcomes from the virus. By examining how this protein interacts with immune signaling pathways in lung cells, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to improved treatments or preventive strategies against COVID-19 and similar viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that enhance the immune response to COVID-19, potentially reducing the severity of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to viral infections, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Li — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Wu, Li
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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.