Discovering new RNA shapes in viruses
Finding and folding novel RNA structures
This project builds computer and lab methods to find important RNA shapes inside viruses like SARS‑CoV‑2 so they can be targeted for new antiviral treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11195020 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You can expect researchers to use computer scans that break viral genomes into many overlapping pieces and predict which parts form stable RNA shapes. They then combine overlapping results to build consensus RNA structures and test the most promising ones in the lab. The team plans to improve this pipeline to find previously hidden regulatory RNA elements in human viruses. These discoveries may point to new molecular targets for antiviral drugs or other therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People affected by viral infections such as COVID‑19 could become relevant for related follow‑up studies, for example donating viral samples or joining trials that use findings from this work.
Not a fit: Patients with nonviral conditions or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic research right away.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal viral RNA elements that lead to new antiviral drugs or therapies for infections like COVID‑19.
How similar studies have performed: Related approaches from this team and others have previously found functional RNA motifs in viruses including SARS‑CoV‑2 and produced early therapeutic leads, so this builds on prior successes.
Where this research is happening
Ames, United States
- Iowa State University — Ames, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moss, Walter — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Moss, Walter
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.