Understanding how viruses interact with protective mucins using synthetic models
Synthetic mucins in epithelial models to probe virus-mucin interactions
This work creates special synthetic mucins to help us understand how viruses attach to our body's protective surfaces, which could lead to new ways to fight infections and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101300 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are covered in a protective layer called mucus, made of special proteins called mucins, which act as a shield against viruses and other threats. This project is developing new synthetic mucins that closely mimic the real ones found in our bodies, allowing scientists to precisely control their structure. These synthetic mucins will be used in laboratory models to observe exactly how viruses bind to them. By understanding these interactions, we can learn more about how viruses spread and cause disease, and how our bodies defend against them.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit individuals affected by viral infections, certain cancers, or conditions related to epithelial health.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatment or direct intervention for their current condition would not receive direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for developing antiviral treatments, improving drug delivery, and understanding how to prevent or treat certain cancers and infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the development of synthetic mucins is a novel approach, the broader field of studying virus-host interactions has a long history of successful research contributing to medical advancements.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kramer, Jessica — Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Kramer, Jessica
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.