How the poxvirus protein F13 helps the virus form and spread
Understanding the Function of F13 as a Matrix Protein for Poxvirus Intracellular Envelopment
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11261725
Researchers are learning how a poxvirus protein called F13 helps the virus wrap itself and move between cells, which could help protect people from poxvirus infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11261725 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From my perspective, the team studies the F13 protein in the lab using infected cells and viral particles to see how the virus forms its outer, spreadable form. They will alter F13 and other viral proteins with molecular tools and watch how those changes affect virus wrapping, movement inside cells, and release. The work uses microscopy, biochemical binding tests, and comparisons across related viral proteins to map F13's role. Findings are meant to point toward ways to block virus spread or improve countermeasures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had or are at risk for poxvirus infections (for example monkeypox or exposures of concern) could be candidates for future studies or interventions informed by this research.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to poxviruses are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for antiviral drugs or vaccine strategies that block poxvirus spread.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have identified several poxvirus envelope proteins as important for spread, but treating F13 as a matrix-like connector to the inner virus form is a newer, less-tested idea.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WARD, BRIAN M — UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: WARD, BRIAN M
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.