Understanding how T cells recognize the SARS-CoV-2 virus
Official title: Structural Basis for T Cell Recognition of SARS-CoV-2
Funded at Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-10898547 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of immune cell called T cells recognizes and fights the virus that causes COVID-19, with the goal of helping to make vaccines even better for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project start | August 3, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $193,671 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI169181-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898547 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 and have developed a T cell response to the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those with compromised immune systems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which T cells recognize and respond to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. The study aims to obtain detailed structural information about T cell receptors (TCRs) and their interactions with viral proteins presented by immune cells. By focusing on CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for clearing the virus, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of the immune response and improve vaccine efficacy. This work will involve advanced techniques such as crystallography to visualize these interactions at the atomic level.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines and therapies for COVID-19 by enhancing our understanding of T cell immunity.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2, but this specific focus on T cell recognition is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Maryland, College Park
College Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mariuzza, Roy a — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Mariuzza, Roy a
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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.