Understanding how viruses use a specific RNA modification to affect their behavior

Employing viruses to unravel the functional significance of the m5C epitranscriptome

NIH-funded research Rockefeller University · NIH-11010851

This study is looking at how a special change in RNA called 5-methylcytosine affects certain viruses, like Sindbis and chikungunya, to help us understand how they grow and interact with our bodies, which could lead to new treatments for viral infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRockefeller University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11010851 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of 5-methylcytosine (m5C), a specific modification of RNA, in various RNA viruses. By utilizing advanced techniques such as high-throughput sequencing and animal models, the study aims to uncover how m5C influences viral replication and interactions with host cells. The research focuses on specific viruses like Sindbis and chikungunya, exploring how this modification affects their life cycles and pathogenicity. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new antiviral therapies targeting these mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals affected by viral infections, particularly those caused by Sindbis virus, chikungunya virus, or Coxsackievirus B3.

Not a fit: Patients with non-viral related conditions or those not infected by the specific viruses studied may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel antiviral treatments that specifically target viral RNA modifications.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of m5C in tRNA biology is well-established, the exploration of its significance in viral RNA is relatively novel, indicating potential for groundbreaking findings.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.