Understanding how alphaviruses translate their RNA
Official title: Elucidating the mechanisms of alphavirus subgenomic RNA translation
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-11056802 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses spread by insects can still make copies of themselves even when your body's defenses are trying to fight them off, and it hopes to find new ways to create treatments for infections caused by these viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32AI176613-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056802 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been infected with alphaviruses or are at risk of infection due to exposure to arthropod vectors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by alphavirus infections or those who do not have a history of exposure to these viruses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique mechanisms by which alphaviruses, which are transmitted by insects, manage to translate their RNA into proteins even when the host's immune response is activated. The study focuses on the viral subgenomic RNA and how it bypasses the host's defenses to ensure viral replication. By exploring these processes, the research aims to identify potential targets for antiviral treatments that could effectively combat alphavirus infections. This could lead to the development of new therapies for diseases caused by these viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective antiviral treatments for alphavirus infections, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in developing antiviral treatments targeting viral replication processes, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating that similar approaches may be effective for alphaviruses.
Where this research is happening
-
Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dinnon, Kenneth Harold — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Dinnon, Kenneth Harold
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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.