How some viruses protect and use their mRNA without the usual tail
Functional characterization of viral non-polyadenylated sequences that enable mRNA stability and translation
This project looks at how certain viruses keep their genetic messages intact and make proteins, aiming to help develop better antiviral treatments for bunyavirus infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11260251 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine the exact ends of bunyavirus mRNAs to find sequence and structural features that prevent decay and promote protein production. In the lab they will use biochemical assays, RNA mapping, and cell-based translation tests to identify viral sequences or proteins that substitute for the normal poly(A) tail. The team will create and test mutated RNA ends and viral factors to pinpoint how a closed-loop translation system is formed without polyadenylation. These findings will be generated using purified systems and infected cell cultures to reveal targets for future antiviral development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with or at risk for bunyavirus infections (for example hantavirus or related viruses) or those able to donate blood or tissue samples for research would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated diseases or infections not caused by bunyaviruses are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets for drugs or vaccines against bunyavirus infections.
How similar studies have performed: Some prior studies have shown a few viral RNAs can mimic poly(A) functions or bind cellular proteins, but mechanisms for the majority of bunyaviruses remain largely untested and novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilusz, Jeremy E — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Wilusz, Jeremy E
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.