How a CMV protein (UL38) changes cell metabolism
Metabolic modulation by the HCMV UL38 gene
Researchers are looking at how a CMV protein shifts cell energy use to find new ways to stop CMV infections that harm babies and people with weak immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11304797 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) protein UL38 reprograms mitochondria to help the virus replicate. Scientists will study how UL38 and a human enzyme called EGLN1 increase mitochondrial respiration and how activating the mitochondrial protease CLPP can block viral replication, using lab-grown cells and molecular tools such as CRISPR interference. The team will map the molecular steps that let the virus hijack cell metabolism and test whether targeting these host pathways reduces virus growth in laboratory models. Findings will guide whether drugs that inhibit EGLN1 or activate CLPP might become safer, more effective antiviral strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People affected by CMV—including pregnant people worried about congenital CMV, infants with congenital infection, and immunocompromised patients with CMV disease—could be future candidates for related clinical research or trials stemming from this work.
Not a fit: People without CMV infection or those needing immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new drug targets that lead to safer, more effective treatments for congenital CMV and CMV disease in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown UL38 alters mitochondrial function and that manipulating mitochondrial regulators can block CMV in cells, but turning these findings into approved treatments remains early and unproven.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munger, Joshua C — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Munger, Joshua C
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.