Understanding how viruses enter cells by studying protein changes
DMS/NIGMS 2: Integrated Analysis of Fusion Protein Conformational Changes for Virus Entry
This study is looking at how viruses like COVID-19 and the flu get into our cells by checking out changes in certain proteins, and it's aimed at helping develop better treatments and vaccines for viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10934341 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how viruses, including those responsible for COVID-19 and influenza, enter human cells by examining the changes in specific proteins during the infection process. The team will use advanced techniques such as multiscale modeling and machine learning to analyze these protein conformational changes, which are crucial for the fusion of the virus with host cell membranes. By focusing on a model protein from the herpes simplex virus, the researchers aim to gain insights that could inform future treatments and vaccines against various viral infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those with COVID-19 or influenza.
Not a fit: Patients with non-viral infections or those not affected by the viruses being studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating viral infections, including COVID-19 and influenza.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral entry mechanisms, but this approach utilizing machine learning and multiscale modeling is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Jin — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Jin
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 below.