How cells detect viral RNA to trigger innate antiviral defenses
dsRNA regulation of the cytosolic innate immune system
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11320865
This work looks at how specific viral-like RNA switches on proteins inside cells to help block virus replication.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11320865 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you want to understand how the body fights viruses, this project studies how double-stranded RNA — a molecular pattern made during many viral infections — turns on cellular proteins called OAS1 and OAS3. The team uses biochemical and structural methods to map the exact RNA sequences and shapes that most strongly activate these proteins and the downstream RNase L pathway. They compare how different RNA features and contexts change activation and use detailed molecular experiments to see how the proteins change shape when they bind RNA. Although most work is done in the lab on purified proteins and RNA, findings could guide future studies that involve patient samples or new antiviral approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had recent viral infections or who are willing to donate blood or tissue samples for lab studies of antiviral immune responses would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or symptom relief should not expect direct clinical benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help scientists design new antiviral drugs or therapies that boost the cell's natural ability to stop viruses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous structural and biochemical work has shown OAS1 detects RNA and can limit viral replication, but defining the specific RNA rules that strongly activate OAS3 remains relatively new.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CONN, GRAEME L — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CONN, GRAEME L
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.