How Ebola and Marburg hijack human proteins to replicate
Roles of host factor protein subnetworks in regulating steps of filovirus infection
Researchers are mapping groups of human proteins that Ebola and Marburg viruses use to grow, to find new ways to stop them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11090534 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks for clusters of human proteins that filoviruses (like Ebola and Marburg) rely on to copy themselves. Scientists combine lab methods — including gene editing, protein-interaction mapping, and mass spectrometry — with advanced computer algorithms to link and prioritize important protein networks. By integrating many large datasets, the team aims to find the most critical host protein subnetworks the viruses exploit. That information is intended to point to possible targets for future drugs or therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had, are suspected of having, or are at risk for Ebola or Marburg infection, and healthy volunteers willing to donate biological samples, would be the most relevant candidates for participation.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to filovirus infection are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for treatments that block filovirus replication.
How similar studies have performed: Prior genome-wide screens and protein-interaction studies have identified host factors for other viruses and produced candidate targets, but turning those findings into effective therapies remains challenging.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davey, Robert a — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Davey, Robert a
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.