Understanding the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 before infection occurs
Longitudinal mucosal immune response to SARS-CoV-2 starting prior to infection
This study is looking at how your immune system reacts to the COVID-19 virus in the early days of infection, especially in people who initially test negative, to understand what might lead to more serious illness, and it will consider how age affects this response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883639 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune system responds to the SARS-CoV-2 virus during the early stages of infection. By analyzing nasal swab and saliva samples from individuals who are initially negative for the virus, the study aims to identify the immune mechanisms that may lead to severe COVID-19 outcomes. The researchers will focus on the timing and effectiveness of the immune response, particularly the type 1 interferon response, and how age-related factors may influence this process. This approach involves frequent sampling to capture changes in the immune response as the infection develops.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are initially negative for SARS-CoV-2 and are at risk of infection, particularly those in households with confirmed cases.
Not a fit: Patients who have already been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those with pre-existing severe health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of COVID-19 progression and inform strategies for early intervention and treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding early immune responses can significantly impact treatment outcomes, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Pasadena, United States
- California Institute of Technology — Pasadena, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Viloria Winnett, Alexander — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Viloria Winnett, Alexander
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.