Understanding how virus spike proteins help viruses enter cells
Official title: The role of conformational dynamics of enveloped virus spike proteins in cell entry
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler · NIH-10913520 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the spike proteins on viruses like SARS-CoV-2 help them get into our cells, which could lead to better vaccines and treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tyler, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $372,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM151169-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913520 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by COVID-19 or those at high risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with or at risk for COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the spike proteins on the surface of viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, which play a crucial role in how these viruses enter human cells. By examining the conformational dynamics of these spike proteins, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that facilitate viral entry and antibody recognition. The approach involves studying the structural changes of these proteins over time to better understand the fusion process that allows viruses to infect cells. This knowledge could lead to improved vaccine and antiviral treatment development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines and antiviral treatments for COVID-19 and other viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral entry mechanisms, making this approach promising for further advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
Tyler, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Maolin — University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
- Study coordinator: Lu, Maolin
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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.