Targeting HIV integrase–viral RNA interactions
Regulation and Targeting of HIV-1 Integrase-RNA Interactions
This work aims to find new ways to block a key HIV protein (integrase) from binding the virus's RNA to help people with HIV, especially those facing drug resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11259455 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You should know that researchers are studying how HIV's integrase protein binds the virus's RNA and how breaking that binding can make virus particles noninfectious. In the lab they use biochemical tests, CRISPR-based genetic screens, and virus-producing cells to map the interaction and find molecules that disrupt it, including allosteric integrase inhibitors. They examine mutant viruses and measure whether treated virus particles are malformed and unable to infect cells. Results will guide development of new drugs that could be tested in people later.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV—particularly those whose virus has become resistant to current integrase inhibitors—would be the most likely eventual candidates for trials based on this work.
Not a fit: People without HIV or those whose infection is already well controlled on current therapies are unlikely to get direct benefit in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to a new class of antiretroviral drugs that work differently from current integrase inhibitors and help control drug-resistant HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Existing integrase strand transfer inhibitors are highly effective, but targeting integrase's RNA-binding is a newer approach with promising laboratory findings that have not yet been proven in patients.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kutluay, Sebla B. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kutluay, Sebla B.
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.