Understanding how HIV-1 DNA is silenced and how a viral protein affects this process
Official title: SMC1A/3 cohesin complex-mediated silencing of unintegrated HIV-1 DNA and the antagonism by Vpr
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10908666 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the HIV virus are kept quiet in our cells, focusing on specific proteins that might help, and it aims to find new ways to improve treatment for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI174848-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908666 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 who have unintegrated viral DNA present in their cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or those with fully integrated viral DNA may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which unintegrated HIV-1 DNA is silenced within the host cells, focusing on the role of the SMC1A/3 cohesin complex and the viral protein Vpr. Using advanced CRISPR-Cas9 technology, the study aims to identify host factors that influence the transcriptional regulation of unintegrated HIV-1 DNA. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving HIV treatment outcomes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new strategies for managing HIV infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance the control of HIV-1 infection and improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using CRISPR technology to manipulate viral gene expression, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Yiping — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Yiping
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.