Understanding how a protein called viperin helps fight viruses
Official title: Deciphering the role of ddhCTP in viperin-related functions
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11122325 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called viperin that helps our immune system fight off viruses like Zika and Dengue, and it’s exploring how a new compound it creates might lead to better treatments for viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | June 20, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $734,139 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI180133-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11122325 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those caused by flaviviruses like Zika and Dengue.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections caused by picornaviruses may not benefit from this research, as these viruses are not affected by ddhCTP.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of viperin, a protein that is activated by the immune system to inhibit various RNA and DNA viruses. The team has discovered that viperin converts a molecule called CTP into a new compound, ddhCTP, which can stop the replication of certain viruses like Zika and Dengue. By exploring how ddhCTP works and its effects on viral replication, the research aims to uncover new antiviral strategies. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to the development of new antiviral therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for viral infections, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar antiviral approaches, particularly in targeting viral replication mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grove, Tyler L — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Grove, Tyler L
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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.