Understanding how immature HIV viruses develop into infectious forms
Official title: Architecture and dynamics of immature HIV lattice
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11009460 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how young HIV viruses grow and change into infectious forms, which could help scientists create new medicines to fight the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | August 6, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $571,685 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI186663-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009460 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who may benefit from new antiviral therapies targeting the maturation process of the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have already developed resistance to existing antiviral treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that control how immature HIV viruses assemble, release, and mature into infectious particles. By studying the protein lattice that forms the viral membrane, the researchers will explore how various components influence the stability of this lattice and how it transitions into a mature form. The project employs advanced biophysical, imaging, and computational techniques to analyze these processes, which could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs that target the maturation of HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the creation of more effective antiviral treatments for HIV, potentially improving outcomes for patients living with the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the maturation process of HIV, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saffarian, Saveez — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Saffarian, Saveez
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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.