Using engineered extracellular vesicles to deliver CRISPR tools for treating COVID-19
Official title: Extracellular vesicles encapsulating CRISPR machinery for treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10766261 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat COVID-19 by using tiny particles to deliver a special tool that can target and break down the virus directly in the lungs, which could help people recover faster.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | January 19, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $184,222 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171944-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10766261 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel method to treat SARS-CoV-2 infections by using extracellular vesicles (EVs) to deliver CRISPR technology directly to respiratory epithelial cells. The approach involves genetically engineering the CRISPR-Cas13 system, which can target and degrade the viral RNA of SARS-CoV-2, thereby inhibiting its proliferation. By encapsulating the CRISPR components within EVs, the researchers aim to enhance the delivery efficiency of these therapeutic agents in vivo. This innovative strategy could provide a new avenue for antiviral treatment against COVID-19.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking antiviral treatment for COVID-19, potentially reducing the severity and duration of the infection.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of CRISPR technology in antiviral treatment is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in targeting viral infections, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cai, Houjian — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Cai, Houjian
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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.