Project title: Impact of bacteriophage-derived dsRNA on macrophages in the context of COVID-19 pandemic

Project No.: LV_UA /2023/7 (1st period)

Period:

1st period 1 March 2023 – 31 December 2023

2nd period 1 January 2024 – 31 December 2024

Project costs:

1st period costs 20 000, 00 EUR

2nd period costs 20 000,00 EUR

Principal Investigator: Dr. biol. Dace Pjanova

Cooperation partner: Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Educational and Scientific Center “Institute of Biology and Medicine” (TSNUK)

Project summary:

Bacteriophage–derived double-stranded RNA (Larifan) has been shown to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication in vitro and in Syrian hamsters. We explain it by Larifan’s ability to restore the delayed interferon response caused by SARS-CoV-2. However, given the reported immune subversion effects caused by SARS-CoV-2, further studies into the role of the immune system, particularly the innate immune system with macrophages and monocytes, after Larifan’s treatment require special attention. This project aims to bring together Latvian’s partner expertise in SARS-CoV-2 research and Ukraine’s partner excellence in tissue-resident and blood mononuclear phagocytes to characterize alveolar macrophages and monocyte responses to Larifan treatment, first, in general, and second, in association with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Even if the pandemic will be under control due to worldwide vaccination programs, further knowledge into the role of the immune system due to the sequelae of COVID-19 will be in demand.