Understanding how certain cell enzymes work and how to block them
The biochemical mechanism and pharmacological inhibition of phosphatidylinositol phosphate kinases
This research aims to understand how specific enzymes in our cells, called PIP5K and PIKfyve, work and how one of them, PIKfyve, affects the COVID-19 virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123127 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells have special enzymes, like PIP5K and PIKfyve, that help manage important fats called lipids, which are crucial for many cell functions. We want to learn the exact details of how these enzymes choose their targets and perform their actions. This knowledge is important because PIKfyve, in particular, plays a role in how the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, infects cells and multiplies. By understanding these enzymes better, we hope to find new ways to stop the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but it is relevant to individuals affected by COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by COVID-19 or conditions related to these specific enzymes may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of new medications that target these enzymes to treat COVID-19 and potentially other related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has identified key structural parts of these enzymes that contribute to their specific actions, and drug repurposing efforts have already pointed to potential inhibitors for PIKfyve.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ha, Ya — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Ha, Ya
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 below.