How HIV selects and shields its genetic material
Selective packaging and protection of HIV-1 genomic RNAs
This project looks at how HIV chooses and protects its RNA so researchers can find new ways to block the virus for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11311380 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's point of view, researchers will change sequences in the HIV genome and run lab tests to see which RNA pieces get picked for packaging into new virus particles. They will use biochemical binding experiments and sequencing methods (like CLIP-seq) to map where the viral protein Gag and other RNA-binding proteins attach to viral and cellular RNAs. Experiments compare interactions in the cell interior versus at the cell membrane to understand how packaging is triggered. Most work is done in laboratory cell models and purified systems rather than in people, but the goal is to reveal steps that could be targeted by future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV who want to contribute samples to basic research or who may be interested in future clinical trials targeting viral assembly would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without HIV or those needing immediate changes in their clinical care are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new points to block HIV particle assembly and lead to therapies that reduce viral spread in people with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have mapped Gag–RNA interactions and shown shifts in binding preferences, but turning that knowledge into drugs is still largely untested and novel.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kutluay, Sebla B. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kutluay, Sebla B.
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.