How poxviruses are blocked from jumping between species
Novel Translational Control Mechanisms in Host Range Restriction of Poxvirus
Researchers are exploring how natural proteins in people and animals block poxviruses like mpox to help prevent future infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11235028 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my point of view, the team is focusing on two natural proteins called SAMD9 and SAMD9L that can stop poxviruses from multiplying. They will study how these proteins cut specific tRNAs and cause stress in infected cells, and how viral proteins counteract them. The work uses cells and animal models and compares versions of these proteins across different species to understand why some animals carry these viruses while others do not. Results aim to reveal molecular steps that let poxviruses cross species so scientists can better predict and block spillovers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with confirmed orthopoxvirus infection (for example, mpox) or individuals willing to donate blood or tissue samples for research would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: Those without any exposure risk to poxviruses or people seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could improve our ability to predict which animal poxviruses might infect people and point to new antiviral targets to prevent or treat infections.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have identified SAMD9/9L as important viral restriction factors, but turning that knowledge into patient-facing treatments or preventive tools remains largely untested.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xiang, Yan — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Xiang, Yan
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.