Understanding how herpes simplex virus enters human cells
Official title: The Golgi complex and HSV entry
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11133068 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the herpes virus gets into our skin cells, which can cause cold sores and other issues, to help find better ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AI178458-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11133068 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who experience recurrent herpes simplex virus infections, including those with cold sores or genital herpes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have herpes simplex virus infections or those with other unrelated viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the pathway that the herpes simplex virus (HSV) takes to enter human epithelial cells, which can lead to conditions like cold sores and blindness. The researchers aim to identify the specific vesicular compartments that HSV traverses during its entry, focusing on the role of the Golgi complex in this process. By employing techniques from cell biology, biochemistry, and microscopy, the study seeks to clarify how HSV successfully infects cells, which could inform future treatment strategies. The findings may provide insights into the mechanisms of viral entry and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating HSV infections, potentially reducing the incidence of related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has identified pathways for viral entry, but this specific focus on the Golgi complex in HSV entry is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nicola, Anthony V — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Nicola, Anthony V
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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.