Understanding how viruses like flu and COVID-19 enter cells
Biophysical studies of viral membrane fusion proteins
This project aims to understand how viruses like the flu and SARS-CoV-2 enter human cells, which is key to developing new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11191407 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project seeks to uncover the precise steps viruses take to merge with human cells, a process called membrane fusion. Researchers are focusing on proteins found on the surface of viruses, like the flu virus's hemagglutinin and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. By studying these proteins, we hope to map out the exact sequence of changes they undergo to allow the virus to enter a cell. This detailed understanding is crucial because it reveals potential weak points where new medicines could interfere with the infection process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit future patients suffering from viral infections.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not caused by viruses that use class-I fusion proteins would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A deeper understanding of how viruses infect cells could lead to new ways to stop infections and develop more effective antiviral drugs for diseases like the flu and COVID-19.
How similar studies have performed: While much is known about viral fusion proteins, this project aims to explicitly validate the precise sequence and timing of conformational changes, which remains largely unconfirmed.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munro, James B — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Munro, James B
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.