Understanding how HIV enters cells through membrane fusion
Official title: Conformational Dynamics and Functional Consequences of HIV Fusion at Lipid Phase Boundaries
Funded at Georgia Institute of Technology · NIH-11123440 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV gets into cells and how certain proteins help with that process, especially by understanding how cholesterol affects the cell membranes; the goal is to find new ways to stop HIV from infecting people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | June 21, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $229,650 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI179359-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123440 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of HIV infection or those living with HIV who may benefit from new therapeutic strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of HIV infection and do not have HIV may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the process by which HIV infects cells, focusing on the role of membrane fusion mediated by specific proteins. It examines how HIV fusion peptides interact with lipid phase boundaries in cell membranes, which are influenced by cholesterol levels. By creating mutant fusion peptides and analyzing their effects through simulations and biochemical assays, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that control HIV entry into cells. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for preventing HIV infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative approaches for preventing HIV infection and improving treatment options for patients living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral entry mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on lipid phase boundaries is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kasson, Peter M — Georgia Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Kasson, Peter M
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.