Understanding how certain enzymes affect cytomegalovirus infection
Official title: Role of Deubiquitinases in CMV Pathogenesis
Funded at Auburn University at Auburn · NIH-10730892 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain enzymes help the cytomegalovirus (CMV) avoid the immune system, which could lead to new treatments for people affected by this virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Auburn University at Auburn NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 5, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $456,008 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AI171796-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10730892 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adults over 21 years old who are infected with cytomegalovirus or at risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with cytomegalovirus or do not have a risk of infection may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of deubiquitinases, which are enzymes that remove ubiquitin from proteins, in the infection process of cytomegalovirus (CMV). By studying how these enzymes influence the virus's ability to cause disease, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that allow CMV to evade the immune response. The approach involves examining the interactions between viral and host proteins during natural infections, which could lead to new insights into antiviral strategies. Patients may benefit from this research as it could inform the development of targeted antiviral therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral treatments that improve outcomes for patients infected with cytomegalovirus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting viral deubiquitinases can be effective in controlling viral infections, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Auburn University at Auburn
Auburn, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Upton, Jason W — Auburn University at Auburn
- Study coordinator: Upton, Jason W
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Hierarchical molecular test kit to detect and quantify C. difficile and C. perfringens in animal feed and livestock
A new, layered molecular panel helps detect and precisely measure harmful bacteria in animal feed and livestock to protect veterinary health and food safety.
-
DNA sequencing tool to improve veterinary bacterial diagnostics
Auburn University plans to buy a DNA sequencing instrument to quickly and accurately identify bacteria in animals and animal-related samples.
-
Advancing Pan-RAS Inhibitors to Prevent Colorectal Cancer
Researchers are testing a new pan-RAS drug candidate to prevent colorectal cancer development in preclinical models, with the goal of stopping tumor growth before it starts.
-
Good Nights Sleep for Kids and Parents
A randomized trial at a US university to help families with 0-11 year olds sleep better by improving sleep habits and the sleep environment, especially in low-income households.
-
Rewilding Immunology: How Diverse Mice Predict Human Immune Responses to Vaccines
A scientist team at Auburn University will study how genetically diverse mice respond to nanoparticle-based vaccines to better predict what might happen in people.
-
Could brain inflammation cause loss of pleasure and motivation?
Looks at whether blood and brain inflammation are tied to reduced pleasure and motivation in teens and adults.
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.