NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how HIV-1 proteins interact with each other and the cell membrane

Official title: Interplay of the HIV-1 Env cytoplasmic tail, Gag-MA, and membrane: resolving molecular detail and blocking assembly

Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10898804 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how parts of the HIV virus work together to help it assemble and infect cells, with the hope of finding new ways to create better treatments for people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project startAugust 3, 2023
Project endJuly 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$774,186
NIH project number5R01AI179697-02
Project IDNIH-10898804 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals living with HIV-1, particularly those with clade C infections.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or those with other unrelated health conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between the HIV-1 envelope protein's cytoplasmic tail, the Gag matrix, and the cell membrane to understand how these components contribute to the virus's assembly and infectivity. Using advanced techniques like cryo-electron tomography and molecular dynamics simulations, the team aims to create detailed models of these interactions. The goal is to identify potential targets for new antiviral drugs that could disrupt these processes. Patients may benefit from insights that lead to more effective treatments for HIV.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antiviral agents that effectively inhibit HIV-1 assembly and infection.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting viral assembly processes, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements in HIV treatment.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Washington
    Seattle, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Derdeyn, Cynthia Ann — University of Washington
  • Study coordinator: Derdeyn, Cynthia Ann

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.