Understanding how coronaviruses assemble and exit infected cells
Official title: Dissecting the peptide motifs controlling coronavirus infections
Funded at Loyola University Chicago · NIH-10904967 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the coronavirus makes copies of itself and leaves infected cells, which could help us find new ways to treat COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Loyola University Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Maywood, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $183,741 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176252-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904967 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by coronavirus infections, particularly those with severe COVID-19 symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-coronavirus related viral infections or those who have fully recovered from COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the late stages of coronavirus infections, specifically how these viruses assemble and exit from infected cells. By studying the interactions between viral membrane proteins and host cell components, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that facilitate the formation and release of virus particles. The approach includes constructing recombinant coronaviruses and virus-like particles to analyze their behavior and transport within cells. This could lead to insights into potential antiviral therapies targeting these processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral treatments that effectively target coronavirus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting viral assembly and egress mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Loyola University Chicago
Maywood, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gallagher, Thomas Miller — Loyola University Chicago
- Study coordinator: Gallagher, Thomas Miller
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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.