Understanding how viruses enter human cells
Official title: Virus breathing and assembly-disassembly transitions in host-entry
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11090841 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses get into our cells, which could help us find new ways to stop infections, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about how viruses work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $387,783 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158169-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090841 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of viral infections, particularly those susceptible to diseases caused by icosahedral viruses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections that do not involve icosahedral viruses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the initial steps of how viruses, particularly icosahedral viruses, enter human host cells. By examining the structural dynamics of these viruses, the study aims to uncover how they assemble and disassemble in response to environmental changes. The methodology includes advanced imaging techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to visualize these processes at a molecular level. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for preventing viral infections by targeting these critical entry points.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antiviral therapies that prevent viruses from entering human cells.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral entry mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Anand, Ganesh S — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Anand, Ganesh S
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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.