Understanding how certain viruses start their protein production

IRES-mediated initiation of picornavirus translation

['FUNDING_R21'] · SUNY DOWNSTATE MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11047287

This study is looking at how certain viruses can trick our cells into making their proteins, even when our immune system is trying to fight them off, and it could help us find new ways to treat infections caused by these viruses.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSUNY DOWNSTATE MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BROOKLYN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11047287 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how picornaviruses, which include significant human pathogens, initiate the process of protein production despite the body's immune responses. It focuses on the internal ribosomal entry sites (IRESs) found in the 5' untranslated regions of viral RNA, which allow these viruses to bypass normal translation initiation mechanisms. By studying the interactions between viral RNA and cellular proteins, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that enable these viruses to effectively hijack the host's translation machinery. This could lead to new insights into viral behavior and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals infected with picornaviruses or those at high risk for infections caused by these viruses.

Not a fit: Patients with viral infections caused by other virus families that do not utilize IRES mechanisms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel anti-viral therapies that specifically target the mechanisms used by these viruses to initiate protein production.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting viral translation mechanisms, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

BROOKLYN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.