How human cells block HIV and related primate viruses
Lentiviral Restriction: capsid and beyond
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY · NIH-11328337
This work looks at how human cells stop HIV and closely related primate viruses to uncover ways to better protect or treat people affected by HIV.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11328337 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will compare pandemic HIV-1 with related primate lentiviruses to find which human proteins allow or block infection. They will use laboratory cell experiments, capsid-focused analyses, and CRISPR-based genetic screens to identify host genes that change viral entry, integration, and replication. The team will study how differences in viral capsids and integration sites interact with cellular chromatin to alter viral gene activity. Results are intended to point toward new targets for prevention or therapy development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV, people at high risk for HIV exposure, and individuals willing to donate blood or tissue samples for research would be the most relevant candidates for related participation or future trials.
Not a fit: People without HIV or with medical issues unrelated to viral infection are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for drugs or prevention approaches that reduce HIV infection or improve treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research has identified host restriction factors and used CRISPR screens to find antiviral genes, but this project applies those tools specifically to capsid-dependent mechanisms and primate viruses in a novel combination.
Where this research is happening
BERKELEY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY — BERKELEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: OHAINLE, MOLLY — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY
- Study coordinator: OHAINLE, MOLLY
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus