COVIFERON aims to better understand the genetic and immunological basis of the different clinical forms of COVID-19, to develop and distribute tests to assess the risk of developing a severe form, and to propose new preventive and therapeutic approaches.
The project follows a “bed side to bench” and “bench to bed side” approach and encompasses four foundational objectives:
1. Genetic and immunological understanding
To decipher the genetic and immunological basis of the different clinical forms of COVID-19 and explore how these findings help understanding other viral diseases.
2. Diagnostic Tests for Autoantibodies
In partnership with bioMérieux
To develop, in partnership with bioMérieux, ready-to-use diagnostic tests for the accurate and large-scale detection of autoantibodies against type I IFNs, which could allow the rapid assessment of the risk of severe disease in subjects infected with SARS-CoV-2, or even before infection.
3. Tests in the context of transfusion
In partnership with EFS
To promote the use of these tests in the context of transfusion of blood products in partnership with EFS.
4. Innovative Preventive and Therapeutic Strategies
To propose new preventive and therapeutic approaches, based on the pathogenesis of COVID-19, if infected with SARS-CoV-2 or other viruses.