How the cell protein ZMPSTE24 helps shape membranes and block viruses
Role of the integral membrane protease ZMPSTE24 in membrane protein biogenesis and virus-host cell fusion
This project looks at how a human protein called ZMPSTE24 helps build cell membranes and prevents enveloped viruses (like SARS‑CoV‑2) from fusing with and entering our cells, which could help people at risk of viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11322627 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will work with human cell models and biochemical systems to see how ZMPSTE24 and related proteins (IFITMs) change membrane properties and stop virus‑host membrane fusion. They will use molecular biology, protein interaction experiments, imaging, and controlled virus infection tests in the lab to map how ZMPSTE24 acts. The team will test whether the antiviral effect depends on the protein's enzymatic activity or on other physical effects on membranes. Findings aim to reveal mechanisms that could be targeted to boost innate antiviral defense.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project is lab-based and is not enrolling patients, but people with or at high risk for enveloped viral infections (for example COVID‑19) are the population that could eventually benefit from the findings.
Not a fit: People with infections that do not rely on membrane fusion or conditions unrelated to membrane biology are unlikely to receive direct benefit, and there is no immediate clinical treatment from this lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to prevent viruses from entering cells, leading to antiviral strategies or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown ZMPSTE24 and IFITM proteins can block virus entry in cell cultures, but translating that mechanism into clinical treatments remains novel and unproven.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Michaelis, Susan D. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Michaelis, Susan D.
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.