Understanding how viral RNA structures help viruses infect cells
Official title: Functional implications of structural heterogeneity in a viral RNA translation initiation element
Funded at New York Structural Biology Center · NIH-10995778 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the RNA in viruses like Hepatitis C help them start an infection even when the body's defenses are down, and it hopes to find new ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York Structural Biology Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | September 14, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186389-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995778 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those caused by RNA viruses like Hepatitis C.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral related health issues or those not affected by RNA viruses may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific RNA structures in viruses, particularly those similar to the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), enable these viruses to initiate infection even when the host's cellular machinery is suppressed. By using advanced computational and biochemical techniques, the study aims to identify and characterize the structural diversity of these RNA elements, known as Internal Ribosome Entry Sites (IRESs). This understanding could lead to insights into how these viruses survive and proliferate, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antiviral therapies targeting the mechanisms that allow viruses to hijack cellular processes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral RNA structures, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
New York Structural Biology Center
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Segar, Katherine — New York Structural Biology Center
- Study coordinator: Segar, Katherine
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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.