Investigating how viruses package their genetic material
Structure and Function of Essential Nucleoprotein Complexes Along a Viral Genome Packaging Pathway
This study is looking at how certain viruses, like herpes and bacteriophages, pack their DNA into protective shells, focusing on the role of special enzymes that help with this process, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how these viruses work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11160784 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the process by which large double-stranded DNA viruses, such as herpesviruses and bacteriophages, package their genomes into viral capsids. The study examines the role of specific enzymes, known as terminases, which facilitate this packaging by assembling into complexes that perform various functions. By using a model system involving phage λ, the researchers aim to dissect the final steps of genome packaging, particularly how the motor recognizes the end of the DNA and transitions to a termination complex. This research employs biochemical assays to explore these complex molecular interactions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those caused by herpesviruses or other related viral pathogens.
Not a fit: Patients with bacterial infections or those not affected by viral diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral therapies that target the genome packaging process in viruses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral packaging mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on termination is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Catalano, Carlos Enrique — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Catalano, Carlos Enrique
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.