Understanding how interferon-lambda helps fight SARS-CoV-2 infection
Official title: NON-CANONICAL MECHANISMS FOR INTERFERON-LAMBDA REGULATION OF SARS-COV-2 INFECTION
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10875449 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called interferon-lambda (IFN-λ) helps our immune system fight off COVID-19, especially by looking at a type of immune cell called CD8 T cells, and it could lead to new ways to treat the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $186,279 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI174050-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875449 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals affected by COVID-19 who may benefit from enhanced immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those with pre-existing severe immune deficiencies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of interferon-lambda (IFN-λ) in providing immunity against SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. It aims to uncover how IFN-λ helps regulate immune responses, particularly focusing on CD8 T cells, which are crucial for fighting viral infections. The study will explore non-traditional functions of IFN-λ that go beyond its known antiviral properties, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for COVID-19. By using animal models, the researchers will assess how the absence of IFN-λ affects the immune response and disease severity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for COVID-19 by enhancing the body's immune response.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with interferon therapies in viral infections, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hemann, Emily Ann — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Hemann, Emily Ann
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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.