Understanding Respiratory Viruses Like RSV and COVID-19 Using Human Airway Models
Human Airway Biomimetics for RSV and Other Respiratory Viruses
This work creates advanced human airway models in the lab to better understand how respiratory viruses like RSV and the one causing COVID-19 affect our bodies, including the gut.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099867 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are developing new 3D models of human nose and lung tissues in the lab, which we call 'biomimetics,' to closely mimic how respiratory viruses affect people. These models help us learn more about common viruses like RSV and also the virus that causes COVID-19, especially since current animal models don't fully show how these infections impact humans. We are also looking into why these respiratory viruses sometimes cause stomach and gut problems, which is not well understood. By using these advanced human models, we hope to speed up the development of new vaccines and treatments for these important illnesses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies building on these models may seek individuals affected by RSV or COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2 may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more effective vaccines and treatments for RSV and COVID-19 by providing a better way to test them before human trials.
How similar studies have performed: While 3D organoid models are an emerging field, this project aims to advance existing models to better mimic human disease for respiratory viruses, building on prior expertise in isolating stem cells and generating organoid lines.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piedra, Pedro a — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Piedra, Pedro a
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.