Understanding how a coronavirus protein affects host cell functions
Official title: Probing the ribosome-dependent mechanisms of human alphacoronavirus Nsp1
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10825933 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific protein made by certain viruses that can help them grow and avoid our immune system, and by understanding how this protein works, we hope to find new ways to treat infections caused by these viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $33,950 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI181514-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10825933 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by infections caused by human alphacoronaviruses, such as those experiencing symptoms of the common cold.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections caused by other types of viruses, such as influenza or rhinoviruses, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the nonstructural protein 1 (Nsp1) produced by human alphacoronaviruses, which plays a crucial role in how the virus interacts with and manipulates host cells. By examining the structural and biochemical properties of Nsp1, the study aims to uncover how this protein contributes to viral replication and immune evasion. The research employs advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the interactions between Nsp1 and the ribosome, which is essential for protein synthesis in cells. The findings could lead to the development of targeted therapies that disrupt these interactions, potentially improving treatment options for viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral therapies that specifically target the mechanisms used by coronaviruses to evade the immune system.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting viral proteins for therapeutic intervention, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Balaji, Shravani — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Balaji, Shravani
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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.