Investigating how viruses package their DNA
Official title: Structure, dynamics, and mechanism of genome packaging motors in dsDNA viruses
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11048603 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific virus packs its DNA, which could help us learn more about similar processes in other viruses and might lead to new treatments for viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $769,831 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI182321-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048603 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those caused by adenoviruses or herpesviruses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections not related to double-stranded DNA viruses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which double-stranded DNA viruses, specifically the Bacillus subtilis bacteriophage φ29, package their DNA. By employing a combination of genetic, biochemical, and structural techniques, the researchers aim to characterize the movements and changes in proteins involved in the DNA packaging process. The findings from this study could provide valuable insights into similar processes in animal viruses, potentially leading to the development of new antiviral therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of innovative antiviral treatments for viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral packaging mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jardine, Paul James — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Jardine, Paul James
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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.