Grant Award Details

Development of a novel PIKFYVE kinase inhibitor for the treatment of COVID-19
Grant Type: 
Grant Number: 
DISC2COVID19-11901
Project Objective: 
  • To demonstrate ASR-149, a lead PIKFYVE inhibitor prevents SARS-CoV-2 infection of human alveolar type II cells, and confirm PIKFYVE as the relevant target of ASR-149.
Investigator: 
Name: 
Institution: 
Type: 
PI
Disease Focus: 
COVID-19
Infectious Disease
Human Stem Cell Use: 
iPS Cell
Award Value: 
$140,067
Status: 
Closed

Progress Reports

Reporting Period: 
Year 1

Grant Application Details

Application Title: 
  • Development of a novel PIKFYVE kinase inhibitor for the treatment of COVID-19
Public Abstract: 

Research Objective

Alveolar type II cells are the stem cells of the lung, and they are killed by SARS-CoV-2. We will determine if a novel PIKFYVE kinase inhibitor prevents SARS-CoV-2 infection of type II cells.

Impact

Although PIKFYVE inhibition blocks SARS-CoV-2 infection, no known PIKFYVE inhibitors have suitable drug-like properties. We would validate a novel PIKFYVE inhibitor for the treatment of COVID-19.

Major Proposed Activities

  • Confirm ASR-149’s efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 in human iPSC-lung type II cells
  • Use antisense oligonucleotides to verify that PIKFYVE inhibition blocks entry of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus and live replication competent SARS-CoV-2 virus in human iPSC-lung type II cells
Statement of Benefit to California: 

If successful, these studies could lead to an effective treatment for COVID-19 that would reduce suffering from COVID-19 and enable Californians to live without social distancing requirements.

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