Understanding how certain viruses translate their genomes without a cap structure
Official title: Structural and mechanistic studies of cap-independent genome translation in (+)-strand RNA viruses
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore County · NIH-10901883 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain RNA viruses start making their proteins without using the usual methods, focusing on special parts of their genetic material that help them hijack the cell's machinery, and the findings could help us understand these viruses better and find new ways to treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore County NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $311,718 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150869-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901883 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by diseases caused by (+)-strand RNA viruses, such as those caused by coxsackievirus or hepatitis A virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to (+)-strand RNA viruses may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which certain RNA viruses initiate the translation of their genomes without relying on the traditional cap structure. It focuses on internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs) and 3' cap-independent translation enhancers (3'CITEs) that allow these viruses to effectively recruit the necessary components from the host cell. Using advanced techniques like X-ray crystallography, the researchers aim to uncover the three-dimensional structures of these viral elements, which could reveal how they interact with ribosomes and other cellular factors. This knowledge may lead to new insights into viral behavior and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antiviral therapies targeting the translation mechanisms of RNA viruses.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying IRESs and 3'CITEs in this context is relatively novel, similar structural studies have previously shown promise in understanding viral mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore County
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koirala, Deepak — University of Maryland Baltimore County
- Study coordinator: Koirala, Deepak
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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.