Understanding how viruses enter cells by studying protein changes
Official title: DMS/NIGMS 2: Integrated Analysis of Fusion Protein Conformational Changes for Virus Entry
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10934341 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 start | September 25, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $284,953 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM152745-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10934341 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those with COVID-19 or influenza.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral infections or those not affected by the viruses being studied may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Jin — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Jin
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Center for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases in East and Central Africa Plus
A center-led effort to study and respond to emerging infectious diseases in East and Central Africa, with collaboration in the region and Central America.
-
Center for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases in East and Central Africa Plus
A national/international research center works to understand and respond to emerging infectious diseases in East and Central Africa, with implications for global health.
-
Surveillance and preparedness for flu and other respiratory pathogens in Kenya
A US-based research grant aims to improve how Kenya detects and prepares for influenza and other respiratory diseases to protect people there and global health.
-
How pre-existing anti-staphylococcal antibodies and B cells can affect vaccines
A study at Washington State University will explore why antibodies and B cells from prior Staphylococcus aureus exposure may weaken or alter responses to vaccines against SA.
-
Music-based, real-time stress relief to support early alcohol recovery
A new mobile program uses just-in-time music listening to help adults in the first 90 days after detox reduce stress and support recovery from alcohol use disorder.
-
Promoting Indigenous Wellness Through Community-Lent Healing and Knowledge
A Native-serving research program collaborates with Indigenous communities to improve wellbeing and relieve harm from opioids and pain by using local strengths and culturally-led approaches.
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.