How a specific protein helps human cytomegalovirus hide from the immune system
Roles of the UL148 glycoprotein in human cytomegalovirus infection
This project explores how the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) uses sugar molecules to protect itself and avoid being recognized by the body's defenses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123428 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have natural defenses, like antibodies, that fight off viruses. This research looks at how human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) cleverly uses sugar coatings, called glycans, to hide from these defenses. We want to understand how a specific viral protein, UL148, helps the virus create this 'sugar cloak' on its surface and on infected cells. By comparing viruses with and without this protein, we hope to uncover the exact ways HCMV shields itself from our immune system, potentially leading to new ways to fight the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but aims to benefit anyone susceptible to or affected by human cytomegalovirus infections.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention for HCMV will not receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for developing vaccines or treatments that help the immune system better recognize and fight human cytomegalovirus.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing knowledge of viral immune evasion and glycosylation, exploring specific mechanisms of HCMV that are not yet fully understood.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kamil, Jeremy Phillip — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Kamil, Jeremy Phillip
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.