Understanding how a protein helps the cytomegalovirus infect cells
Official title: Defining how SLBP promotes infectivity of HCMV
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11219684 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called SLBP helps the cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infect cells better, and by understanding this process, we hope to find new ways to treat infections for people affected by the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | June 2, 2024 |
| Project end | June 1, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $74,632 |
| NIH project number | 5F32AI183625-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11219684 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with cytomegalovirus infections or those at risk of such infections, particularly immunocompromised patients.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have cytomegalovirus infections or are not at risk for such infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of stem-loop binding protein (SLBP) in the infectivity of cytomegalovirus (HCMV). It aims to uncover how SLBP, which is known for its role in processing histone mRNAs, is also utilized by HCMV to enhance its ability to infect cells. The study will involve characterizing the interactions between SLBP and viral components, as well as examining the effects of SLBP on the virus's secreted factors that influence its infectivity. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how HCMV operates, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cytomegalovirus infections, which can cause serious health issues, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of SLBP in HCMV infectivity is novel, similar research has shown that understanding viral interactions with host proteins can lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morrison, Kylee Marie — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Morrison, Kylee Marie
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.