Understanding how to inhibit the virus that causes COVID-19
Kinetic and structural basis for SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase specificity and inhibition
This study is looking for new antiviral medicines that can help fight COVID-19 by targeting a key part of the virus that helps it make copies of itself, with the hope of finding better treatments for people who are sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888224 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing antiviral drugs that target the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is crucial for its replication. By studying the kinetics of how this polymerase incorporates nucleotides, researchers aim to identify effective inhibitors that could lead to new treatments for COVID-19 and future coronavirus strains. The approach involves detailed kinetic measurements to understand the mechanisms of nucleotide selectivity, which will guide the design of robust assays for drug discovery. If successful, this research could provide new therapeutic options for patients suffering from COVID-19.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are currently infected with SARS-CoV-2 or at high risk of severe COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients who have already recovered from COVID-19 and do not have ongoing symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective and less toxic antiviral drugs for treating COVID-19.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing antiviral agents targeting viral RNA polymerases, indicating a potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Kenneth Allen — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Kenneth Allen
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.