How HIV uses specific cell proteins that bind its shell to enter and infect cells
Roles of HIV-1 capsid-binding FG-motif containing cellular cofactors in infection
This project looks at how certain human proteins that stick to HIV’s shell help the virus enter cells and establish infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11259480 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are mapping how HIV’s outer shell (the capsid) interacts with human proteins such as SEC24C, NUP153, and CPSF6 to travel through the cell and reach the nucleus. They use lab experiments with infected cells, purified proteins, and high-resolution imaging like cryo-electron microscopy to see where and how these proteins bind. The team studies specific protein motifs (FG-motifs) and prion-like domains that make the binding strong to reveal steps the virus needs for infection. Understanding these interactions could point to new ways to block HIV early in infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV who are willing to donate blood or tissue samples for laboratory studies, or who want to contribute to basic HIV research, would be relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Individuals without HIV or those seeking immediate changes to their personal treatment are unlikely to benefit directly from this laboratory-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets to block HIV’s entry and nuclear import, guiding development of novel antiviral treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research has identified capsid-binding factors like NUP153 and CPSF6 and provided structural evidence, but the full set of factors and their mechanisms remain incompletely understood.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kvaratskhelia, Mamuka — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Kvaratskhelia, Mamuka
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.