Chengjin Ye, PhD

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, has had a devastating impact on global health, especially lung health.  The virus continues to evade our defenses, causing breakthrough infections and long-term lung complications in many people. This research project focuses on a specific viral protein called NSP3, a key player in how SARS-CoV-2 infects cells and avoids our immune defenses. Our preliminary findings suggest that NSP3 acts as an enzyme to disable important immune signals, including interferons that play a crucial role in protecting the lungs from viruses. This research will help us understand how SARS-CoV-2 escape host limitations and establish infection. In the long term, this work will contribute to the American Lung Association’s mission to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease.