How tiny viral RNAs affect infections like COVID‑19 and herpesvirus
Small RNA-mediated warfare between viruses and their hosts
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-11159640
This work looks at how very small pieces of viral genetic material change how viruses such as SARS‑CoV‑2 and certain herpesviruses interact with human cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11159640 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers at Mount Sinai will focus on two kinds of tiny viral RNAs: small nuclear RNAs from a gamma‑herpesvirus and a microRNA produced by SARS‑CoV‑2. They will map where these RNAs go inside infected cells and measure how they change host and viral gene activity. The team will use molecular biology and cell‑based experiments to pinpoint the RNAs' functions and the host pathways they alter. Findings are intended to guide future efforts to target these viral RNAs for diagnosis or therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had COVID‑19 or who have infections related to gamma‑herpesviruses — or who can donate blood or tissue samples — would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: Individuals without viral infection or those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets for antiviral diagnostics or treatments for COVID‑19 and herpesvirus‑related diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies show viral non‑coding RNAs can change host immune responses and gene regulation, but applying this to specific herpesviral snRNAs and a SARS‑CoV‑2 microRNA is largely novel.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PAWLICA, PAULINA — ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- Study coordinator: PAWLICA, PAULINA
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.