Understanding immunity to seasonal coronaviruses and developing a new infection model.
Official title: Characterization of seasonal CoV immunity and operationalization of a novel controlled human infection model for the betacoronavirus OC43
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11073063 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system reacts to seasonal coronaviruses, especially the OC43 strain, to help us understand why people can get reinfected and how we can measure immunity, which is important for getting ready for future outbreaks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 25, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $175,300 |
| NIH project number | 5K08AI170950-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073063 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are adults aged 21 and older who are interested in contributing to research on coronaviruses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to coronaviruses or those with compromised immune systems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system responds to seasonal coronaviruses, particularly focusing on the OC43 strain. By using a controlled human infection model, researchers aim to better understand how these viruses can reinfect individuals and how immunity can be measured. The study will involve developing assays to evaluate immune responses and will be guided by experts in the field of coronaviruses and vaccine development. This work is crucial for preparing for future outbreaks of coronaviruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines and treatments for coronaviruses, enhancing public health preparedness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using controlled human infection models has shown promise in understanding viral infections and developing vaccines, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deming, Meagan Elise — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Deming, Meagan Elise
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.