Using MitoQ to prevent COVID-19 after exposure
Official title: Mitoquinone/mitoquinol mesylate as oral and safe Postexposure Prophylaxis for Covid-19
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10727092 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether taking MitoQ, a special antioxidant, can help prevent COVID-19 after someone has been exposed to the virus, and it's for people who are at high risk of getting sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $246,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI178632-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727092 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have had high-risk exposure to someone confirmed to have COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are currently infected with COVID-19 or those with severe underlying health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of MitoQ, a mitochondrial antioxidant, as a potential oral treatment to prevent COVID-19 after high-risk exposure. The study aims to evaluate how MitoQ can reduce viral replication and inflammation associated with SARS-CoV-2 infections. By targeting the Nrf2 pathway, which regulates oxidative stress and inflammation, the research seeks to provide a safe and effective prophylactic option for individuals exposed to the virus. Participants will be monitored for the development of COVID-19 symptoms and infection rates compared to a control group.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective method for preventing COVID-19 in individuals who have been exposed to the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with MitoQ in reducing viral replication and inflammation, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelesidis, Theodoros — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kelesidis, Theodoros
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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.