How alphaviruses fuse with cells to cause infection
Structural Mechanisms of Alphavirus Membrane Fusion
Researchers are mapping how alphaviruses' outer proteins change to let the virus enter cells, aiming to help people who get alphavirus infections such as viral arthritis or encephalitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11310816 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This lab team uses powerful cryo-electron microscopes to take very detailed pictures of alphaviruses as they merge with cell-like membranes. They will create specific changes in the viral envelope proteins (E1 and E2) and run biochemical and biophysical tests to see which changes stop or alter fusion. The group will also test key mutations in engineered viruses to confirm how those changes affect the virus's ability to enter cells. By watching the fusion process step-by-step, they hope to reveal parts of the virus that future drugs or vaccines could target.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with a confirmed history of alphavirus infection or those willing to donate blood or tissue samples for research would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated conditions or those needing immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify targets for new antivirals or vaccines to prevent or treat alphavirus-related arthritis and encephalitis.
How similar studies have performed: High-resolution imaging of viral fusion is a cutting-edge approach with promising preliminary images for alphaviruses but remains early-stage for developing therapies.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Wei — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Wei
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.