This $243,713 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (CFDA 93.855 - Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research) to the University of Massachusetts Medical School's Grants and Contracts Administration Division aims to systematically investigate the interdependence of mutations that can lead to drug resistance in SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
Specifically, the project will comprehensively analyze combinations of mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) that disrupt binding to the antiviral drug nirmatrelvir (the active component in Paxlovid) and mutations that increase Mpro enzyme activity. This will provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the evolution of drug resistance in this clinically important pathogen. The research will leverage a yeast-based screening system developed by the researchers to safely and efficiently assess Mpro activity and drug disruption across multiple mutational combinations. The findings from this 2-year project could inform strategies to mitigate the development of resistance to COVID-19 treatments.
Generated 3/4/25, 8:22 AM