How HPV travels through cell compartments to reach the nucleus
Retrograde TGN/Golgi transport and nuclear targeting of HPV during entry
This project looks at how HPV moves inside human cells to reach the nucleus, aiming to help people at risk for HPV-related cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11291113 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are focusing on the steps that occur after HPV reaches the cell's trans-Golgi network (TGN) to understand how the virus crosses the Golgi and is targeted to the nuclear envelope. They use laboratory cell models and molecular biology tools to block or alter virus movement at specific points and then observe whether infection is stopped. The multi-investigator team will build on previous work and publications to pinpoint host proteins and transport pathways the virus uses. Results may suggest biological targets for new antiviral approaches to prevent HPV from establishing infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with current HPV infection, those at high risk for HPV-related anogenital cancers, or individuals willing to donate tissue or clinical samples for laboratory research.
Not a fit: People without HPV exposure or those already fully protected from relevant HPV types by vaccination may not get direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for antiviral drugs or treatments that stop HPV infection before it leads to cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have mapped parts of the HPV entry pathway and shown that blocking TGN exit can stop infection, but the specific mechanisms for crossing the Golgi and nuclear targeting are still largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsai, Billy — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Tsai, Billy
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.