NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how SV40 virus enters human cells

Official title: Investigating the nuclear entry mechanism of SV40

Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11089577 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the SV40 virus gets into the center of human cells, which could help us find new ways to treat illnesses caused by similar viruses, like BK and JC viruses, so patients dealing with these conditions might benefit from what we learn.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project startMay 15, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$378,300
NIH project number5R01AI179566-02
Project IDNIH-11089577 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals suffering from conditions related to polyomaviruses, such as nephropathy, hemorrhagic cystitis, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.

Less likely to help

Patients with viral infections not related to polyomaviruses or those without any viral infections may not receive benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which the SV40 virus, a member of the polyomavirus family, enters the nucleus of human cells. By focusing on the roles of specific nuclear membrane protein complexes, the study aims to uncover the steps involved in viral entry, which is crucial for developing new treatments for diseases caused by related viruses, such as BK virus and JC virus. Patients with conditions linked to these viruses may benefit from insights gained through this research, as it could lead to novel therapeutic strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for viral infections that affect the kidneys, nervous system, and skin.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding viral entry mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
    Ann Arbor, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Tsai, Billy — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
  • Study coordinator: Tsai, Billy

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.