Understanding how helicases work and their role in viral replication and cancer
Official title: Helicase Mechanism and G-Quadruplex Signaling
Funded at Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis · NIH-11014087 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a special protein called Pif1 helps unwind DNA in yeast and how this might relate to viruses and cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these conditions for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Little Rock, United States) |
| Project start | January 7, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $598,543 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156702-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014087 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with viral infections or certain types of cancer linked to helicase mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to helicase functions or those not affected by viral infections or cancer may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which helicases, which are proteins that help unwind DNA, function in various biological processes. The study focuses on the Pif1 helicase in yeast to explore how it performs multiple tasks, including its role in viral replication and cancer development. By examining the biochemical and biological activities of helicases, the research aims to uncover potential targets for antiviral and cancer therapies. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatments that target these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral and cancer therapies that target helicase functions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting helicases can be effective in developing antiviral and cancer therapies, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
Little Rock, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raney, Kevin Douglas — Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
- Study coordinator: Raney, Kevin Douglas
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.