Understanding a key protein in the herpes simplex virus
Official title: Functions of the largest HSV-1 virion protein, pUL36
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11116441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific protein in the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores and other serious issues, to find new ways to stop the virus from spreading and help improve treatments for people dealing with these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $75,175 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AI190227-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11116441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from herpes simplex virus infections, particularly those experiencing severe symptoms like ocular disease or recurrent cold sores.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have herpes simplex virus infections or those with mild, non-recurring symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the pUL36 protein in the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which is known to cause persistent infections leading to conditions like cold sores, blindness, and even encephalitis. The study aims to explore how this protein contributes to the virus's ability to mature and replicate, potentially identifying new targets for antiviral drugs. By focusing on the virus's life cycle, the research seeks to develop compounds that can inhibit its replication or prevent disease altogether, which could significantly improve treatment options for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral therapies that effectively treat or prevent herpes simplex virus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting viral proteins for antiviral drug development, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Desai, Prashant J — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Desai, Prashant J
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.