Investigating how Dicer enzyme helps fight viral infections in human cells
Official title: Dicer DNA nickase activity and its role in anti-viral immunity in human cells
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10892270 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special enzyme in our cells helps fight off viruses and changes its role when cells die, which could lead to new ways to improve our immune response and treat viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 21, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $81,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AI178064-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892270 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with viral infections or those interested in the mechanisms of viral immunity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral related conditions or those not affected by viral infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the Dicer enzyme in human cells, which is crucial for producing small RNA molecules that help defend against viral infections. The study aims to understand how Dicer can switch functions from an RNA-silencing enzyme to a DNase during programmed cell death, potentially affecting the immune response to viruses. By examining this dual role, the research seeks to uncover new insights into how cells manage viral threats and the mechanisms behind cell death. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of viral immunity and potential new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the body's ability to fight viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of Dicer in other organisms, but this specific investigation in humans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fukunaga, Ryuya — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Fukunaga, Ryuya
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.