Understanding how the SARS-CoV-2 main protease enzyme works
Official title: Studies on the SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Dimerization Mechanism
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11071349 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a key enzyme in the COVID-19 virus to understand how it works and to find new ways to stop the virus from spreading, which could help create better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $38,674 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI189116-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071349 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by COVID-19 or those at high risk of severe illness from the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with SARS-CoV-2 or who do not have a risk of severe COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the main protease enzyme (Mpro) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is crucial for the virus's replication and pathogenesis. The study aims to uncover how Mpro functions as a dimer and to explore its structural and functional properties using advanced luciferase-based reporter assays. By identifying potential inhibitors of Mpro dimerization, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies against COVID-19. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to the development of effective antiviral treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs targeting the SARS-CoV-2 main protease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully identified antiviral targets in similar viral proteases, suggesting a promising avenue for therapeutic development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Delgado, Renee — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Delgado, Renee
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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.