Understanding how HIV-1 enters human cells
A multiscale approach for elucidating nuclear entry mechanisms of HIV-1 capsid
This study is looking at how the HIV-1 virus gets into the center of human cells, which is important for it to cause infection, and it aims to find new ways to stop the virus by understanding how its outer shell interacts with the cell's entry points.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908430 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the HIV-1 virus gains access to the nucleus of human cells, which is crucial for its infectivity. The study focuses on the viral capsid, which must navigate through nuclear pore complexes to deliver its genetic material. By developing innovative in vitro models that mimic the nuclear environment, researchers aim to uncover the interactions between the HIV-1 capsid and the nuclear pore proteins. This could lead to new insights into how HIV-1 infects cells and potential therapeutic strategies to combat the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 or those at high risk of HIV infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or who do not have a risk of exposure to the virus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments that prevent HIV-1 from entering human cells, thereby reducing the spread of the virus.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding viral entry mechanisms, but this approach using DNA-origami-based models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xiong, Yong — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Xiong, Yong
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 below.