Grant Award Details

Development of COVID-19 Antiviral Therapy Using Human iPSC-Derived Lung Organoids
Grant Type: 
Grant Number: 
DISC2-12170
Project Objective: 
  • To identify lead compounds targeting the main protease of SARS-CoV2 as therapeutics for COVID-19
Investigator: 
Name: 
Institution: 
Type: 
PI
Disease Focus: 
COVID-19
Infectious Disease
Human Stem Cell Use: 
iPS Cell
Award Value: 
$250,000
Status: 
Closed

Progress Reports

Reporting Period: 
Year 1/NCE period

Grant Application Details

Application Title: 
  • Development of COVID-19 Antiviral Therapy Using Human iPSC-Derived Lung Organoids
Public Abstract: 

Research Objective

To develop a new therapy for COVID-19 using human iPSC-derived lung organoids that targets SARS-CoV-2 protease known as the virus’ “Achilles Heel”

Impact

Our work, if successful, will bring a class of new drugs directly targeting viral enzyme and open the door for future COVID therapies.

Major Proposed Activities

  • Complete synthesis and testing of new inhibitors
  • Optimize and validate the new compounds activities in lung cells and organoids
  • Rapidly expand the efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors in a large panel of lung organoids from African-American, Latino, and Caucasian men and women.
  • ensure that any newly emerging therapy will be applicable to all patients regardless of gender and race.
Statement of Benefit to California: 

The emergence of novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and its associated disease, COVID-19, has presented an urgent global public health crisis. In California, more than 700,000 individuals have been infected leading ~13,000 deaths. Further, Californians are grappling with the economic impact due to job loss and business shutdowns. Finding a treatment for COVID-19 would have a huge impact on saving lives, preventing new infections, and helping people to return to normal activities of life.

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