Understanding how host proteins affect the entry and exit of Ebola and Marburg viruses
Official title: Role of Host Filamin Proteins in Regulating Filovirus Entry and Egress
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10807023 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our bodies help or hinder the Ebola and Marburg viruses, with the hope of finding new ways to treat or prevent these serious infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $212,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI175849-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10807023 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of exposure to Ebola or Marburg viruses, including healthcare workers and those in endemic regions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of exposure to filoviruses or those with existing infections that do not respond to antiviral therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific host proteins in the life cycle of filoviruses, such as Ebola and Marburg, which cause severe hemorrhagic fever. By examining how these proteins interact with viral components, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new antiviral therapies. The approach involves identifying both positive and negative regulators of virus replication, focusing on the interactions between viral proteins and host cell factors. This could provide insights into how to prevent or treat infections caused by these dangerous viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral therapies that effectively combat Ebola and Marburg virus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting host-virus interactions to develop antiviral strategies, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harty, Ronald N — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Harty, Ronald N
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.