Understanding how SARS-CoV-2 affects the lungs using human lung models
Modeling early SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis in human lung organoids and slice cultures
This study is looking at how different versions of the COVID-19 virus affect lung cells and the body's immune response, using special lab models, to help find new ways to treat the illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11009595 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the early effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on human lung cells by using advanced models called organoids and lung slice cultures. The study aims to uncover how different variants of the virus influence inflammation and immune responses in the lungs. By analyzing the interactions between various cell types and the immune pathways activated during infection, researchers hope to identify potential targets for new treatments. Techniques such as quantitative PCR and single-cell RNA sequencing will be employed to gather detailed information about the virus's impact on lung cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or are at high risk of infection.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those with unrelated respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel therapies to better manage COVID-19 and its variants.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using organoid models to study viral infections, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rustagi, Arjun — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Rustagi, Arjun
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.