How a natural enzyme helps cells fight off viruses
Mechanisms of Enzyme Regulation by Viperin in the Cellular Antiviral Response
This project looks at how a natural enzyme called viperin helps our cells stop viruses from multiplying, aiming to find new ways to fight infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11127403 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have amazing ways to protect themselves from viruses, and this project explores one of those key defenses. We are learning how a special enzyme called viperin works at a very basic level within our cells to block viruses like influenza, HIV, and hepatitis C. Viperin makes a unique molecule that can stop some viruses from copying their genetic material. Beyond that, we are also discovering how viperin interacts with other cell components and viral proteins to create a broader antiviral shield. Understanding these detailed mechanisms can help us develop better medicines to treat viral infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future clinical applications would target individuals with viral infections such as influenza, HIV, or hepatitis C.
Not a fit: Patients not currently affected by viral infections or those with conditions unrelated to the cellular antiviral response would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new antiviral medications that target how our cells naturally fight off infections, offering more effective treatments for a range of viral diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has identified viperin as a crucial antiviral enzyme and shown its ability to restrict various human viruses, providing a strong foundation for this deeper exploration.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marsh, E Neil — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Marsh, E Neil
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.