Understanding How Cells Fight Viruses

Defining the Biology of the ADAR1-RISC Complex

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11097182

This research explores a newly discovered way our cells protect themselves from viral infections, aiming to find new strategies to help us stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097182 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our bodies have amazing ways to fight off viruses, and this project focuses on a recently found defense system within our cells. We are learning more about a specific group of proteins, called the ADAR-RISC Complex, that quickly responds when a virus tries to infect a cell. By understanding how this complex works and what it does, we hope to uncover new insights into our natural defenses. This knowledge could help us develop better ways to prevent and treat viral illnesses in the future.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future clinical applications would target individuals susceptible to or suffering from viral infections.

Not a fit: Patients not affected by viral infections or those seeking immediate treatment options may not directly benefit from this basic science research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a deeper understanding of how our bodies naturally fight viruses, potentially opening doors for new antiviral treatments or prevention methods.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific ADAR-RISC complex is a relatively new area of focus, other studies have successfully identified various cellular defense mechanisms against viruses, providing a foundation for this work.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.