Investigating how influenza virus proteins interact with host cell components
Official title: The Role of Phosphoinositides in Influenza Virus Assembly
Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-10954577 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the flu virus puts itself together inside our cells, focusing on a key protein and how it interacts with other parts of the virus, which could help scientists find new ways to fight the flu.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maine Orono NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orono, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $430,613 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM155811-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954577 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at high risk for influenza infection, including those with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by influenza or who have already been vaccinated against the current strains may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the assembly of the influenza virus by examining how its surface protein hemagglutinin clusters with other viral components in host cells. The study will explore the role of phosphoinositides, which are important for cell signaling and protein trafficking, in this clustering process. Using advanced techniques like super-resolution microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these interactions, which could lead to new antiviral strategies targeting stable features of the virus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective antiviral therapies against influenza that are less susceptible to viral mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting invariant features of viruses for antiviral development, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maine Orono
Orono, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hess, Samuel T — University of Maine Orono
- Study coordinator: Hess, Samuel T
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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.