Understanding how herpes simplex viruses enter human cells
Official title: Capturing HSV entry glycoprotein complexes
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11117997 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the herpes viruses get into our cells, so researchers can find new ways to create vaccines and treatments since there aren’t any good options available right now.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $236,292 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI190726-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117997 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are infected with HSV-1 or HSV-2, particularly those experiencing recurrent outbreaks or complications such as blindness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with herpes simplex viruses or those who have already developed effective immunity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2) enter human cells, focusing on the specific glycoprotein complexes involved in the process. The researchers aim to isolate and analyze these glycoprotein complexes using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy. By understanding how these proteins interact and function, the research seeks to identify potential targets for new vaccines and therapies. This work is crucial as current treatments are not curative and there are no available vaccines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines and therapies for herpes simplex virus infections.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on HSV, the specific approach of isolating and analyzing glycoprotein complexes is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heldwein, Ekaterina — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Heldwein, Ekaterina
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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.