Understanding how betacoronaviruses affect the immune system
Betacoronaviruses: activation and antagonism of host innate immune responses
This study is looking at how certain coronaviruses, like the ones that cause COVID-19 and MERS, manage to dodge our immune system and make us sick, with the goal of finding new ways to treat and prevent these viruses in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077193 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how human betacoronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV, interact with the host's immune responses. The team aims to identify the mechanisms by which these viruses evade the immune system and cause disease, focusing on the role of specific proteins and pathways involved in inflammation and antiviral responses. By studying these interactions, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to combat current and future coronavirus outbreaks.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been infected with or are at risk of infection from betacoronaviruses, particularly those with severe respiratory symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with non-respiratory illnesses or those not affected by betacoronaviruses may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective treatments for infections caused by betacoronaviruses, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to coronaviruses, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiss, Susan R — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Weiss, Susan R
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.