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UofL researchers may have discovered how to block coronavirus from infecting human cells

The University of Louisville will apply to the FDA for approval to start treating patients seriously affected by COVID-19.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Researcher at the University of Louisville say they have developed a technology that might be able to block the novel coronavirus from infecting human cells.

According to a recent article published by the university, the technology is based on a piece of synthetic DNA called an “aptamer,” which targets and binds with a human protein called nucleolin. Researchers say early tests show the aptamer may stop viruses, including novel coronavirus, from “hijacking” nucleolin to replicate inside the body.  

UofL is seeking to fast-track development, including applying to the Food and Drug Administration for approval to start treating patients seriously affected by COVID-19.

Credit for the discovery of the aptamer goes to UofL’s Paula Bates, John Trent and Don Miller.The three researchers have applied it in a variety of ways, most notably as a potential therapeutic drug against multiple types of cancer, according to the article.

You can read the full article here.

UofL say they are providing financial support for COVID-19 research, but additional funds are needed to continue the work over time. Donations specifically for the research can be made online here.

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