Targeting TMEM41B, a human protein many flaviviruses and coronaviruses need
TMEM41B: a pan-flavivirus and pan-coronavirus host factor with antiviral potential
Researchers are looking at whether blocking a human protein called TMEM41B can stop a range of viruses that cause illnesses like dengue and COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136877 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This lab project focuses on a human cell protein, TMEM41B (and its partner VMP1), that many flaviviruses and coronaviruses hijack to remodel cell membranes and copy their RNA. Scientists use CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to remove these proteins from human cell lines and then compare how viruses enter, translate their proteins, and build replication compartments. They combine biochemical tests, imaging, and molecular assays to pinpoint which early viral steps fail without TMEM41B or VMP1 and how the innate immune response changes. The goal is to reveal whether blocking these host factors could be a route to broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Although this is lab-based research that does not enroll patients for treatment, people who have had or are at risk for flavivirus or coronavirus infections might be invited to donate samples for related studies.
Not a fit: Patients with non-viral diseases or anyone seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new medicines that block a host protein and work against many different flaviviruses and coronaviruses.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory screens have identified TMEM41B as important for these viruses, but turning that finding into safe, broad-spectrum antiviral drugs remains largely untested.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Rockefeller University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rice, Charles M — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Rice, Charles M
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.