How the coronavirus packs its genetic code
A multipronged investigation of SARS-CoV-2 genome packaging
This project looks at how the SARS‑CoV‑2 nucleocapsid protein folds and binds viral RNA to help identify new ways to block the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11325846 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers are focusing on the virus protein that packages the SARS‑CoV‑2 genome so new virus particles can form. They will use biochemical and biophysical experiments plus molecular modeling to map the protein's binding sites and how it compacts RNA, with special attention to flexible (disordered) regions that have been understudied. By understanding how multiple parts of the protein work together to bind RNA and itself, the team hopes to reveal steps in virus assembly that could be interrupted by future drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients; it is laboratory research on the virus conducted at Washington University in St. Louis.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment for COVID‑19 are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this lab-focused study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for antiviral drugs that prevent the virus from assembling and lower infection or disease severity.
How similar studies have performed: Structural and biophysical studies of other coronavirus proteins have previously pointed to antiviral strategies, but detailed analysis of the nucleocapsid's disordered regions is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soranno, Andrea — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Soranno, Andrea
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.