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A COVID-19 Breakthrough In Kentucky? U-Of-L Researchers Are Hopeful

NIAID-RML via AP

Researchers at the University of Louisville are touting what they say could be a "breakthrough" in the fight against COVID-19.

Hopes are running high that a synthetic form of DNA originally developed to fight cancer could turn out to stop the novel coronavirus from hijacking a human protein it uses to replicate - essentially halting the infection process.

U-of-L researcher Paula Bates explained to WDRB-TV the testing that's been done so far.

"They have cells and they infect them with the new coronavirus, and the cells become sick and die in response to the virus. What we've shown now is that when we add in our drug, it's able to block that effect," she says.

Tests have already signaled the drug is safe for use in patients, which could prove advantageous as the university puts development on the fast track and seeks testing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

U-of-L is asking for donations as it ramps up research into the possible coronavirus treatment.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.
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