Understanding how gammaherpesviruses affect transfer RNA during infection
Official title: Gammaherpesviruses induce transfer RNA cleavage
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11123181 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses cut up a part of our cells called transfer RNA during an infection and how these pieces might help our body fight off the virus better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | June 21, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI173703-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123181 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with infections caused by gammaherpesviruses or those at risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral infections or those not affected by gammaherpesviruses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how gammaherpesviruses cleave host transfer RNA (tRNA) into fragments during infection and the role these fragments play in the antiviral response. Using advanced molecular and genetic techniques, the study aims to profile the different tRNA fragments produced during infection and determine their impact on the body's ability to fight the virus. By analyzing infected primary cells, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind tRNA cleavage and its potential regulatory functions in enhancing antiviral defenses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral strategies that enhance the body's natural defenses against gammaherpesvirus infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying tRNA cleavage in response to gammaherpesvirus is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding viral interactions with host cellular mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tucker, Jessica Mitchell — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Tucker, Jessica Mitchell
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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.