Contagion Live: Targeting Lung Blood Vessel Inflammation in COVID-19 Patients
UC cardiologist discusses use of razuprotafib to lessen blood vessel inflammation
Richard Becker, MD, director of the UC Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, was interviewed by a reporter for Contagion Live about a new phase 2 clinical trial UC and UC Health are conducting using the drug razuprotafib, to lessen inflammation of the blood vessels in COVID-19 patients. Razuprotafib activates a key pathway for stabilizing blood vessels in the lungs and may prevent or treat respiratory distress in COVID-19 patients. Becker, also a UC Health cardiologist, and Duncan Hite, a professor in the UC College of Medicine, and medical director of critical care at UC Health, are overseeing the trial using razuprotafib at UC. The drug is being used as a part of clinical trial in 20 sites across the nation.
Listen to the Contagion Live interview online.
Learn more about the research involving Dr. Becker and Dr. Hite.
Related Stories
News Cincinnati loved in 2025
January 2, 2026
The story of prohibition bootlegger George Remus was among WLWT's favorite segments in 2025. UC Law Professor Christopher Bryant spoke with journalist Lindsay Stone about Remus using a temporary insanity defense during a murder trial.
What to know about this year’s big tax changes
January 2, 2026
Local 12 reported that taxpayers can expect some major changes this tax season. Gary Friedhoff, adjunct instructor at the University of Cincinnati’s Carl H. Lindner College of Business, recently spoke to Local 12 about how to avoid surprises.
Study finds police officers face higher long-term health risks
January 2, 2026
J.C. Barnes, a University of Cincinnati professor, is interviewed by Spectrum News about new research showing that the physical and psychological demands of law enforcement can contribute to earlier deaths.