Using RNA-like molecules to block HIV from making infectious particles
RNA-mimicry to guide the intra-cellular targeting of host virus protein and viral RNA-protein interactions to inhibit HIV replication.
This project tests whether RNA-mimic molecules can stop HIV from assembling and releasing infectious virus in people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11322725 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are examining how HIV's integrase protein interacts with a human protein called INI1 and with viral RNA, focusing on the molecular interfaces that help the virus assemble and mature. They plan to design RNA-like molecules and other inhibitors to disrupt these protein–protein and protein–RNA interactions and then test their effects on viral particle production and structure in laboratory models. The work uses biochemical assays, cell-based systems, and genetic tools to see whether blocking these interactions prevents HIV from making infectious particles. If effective, these laboratory findings would guide development of new antiviral drugs to be tested later in clinical trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project is currently lab-focused with no patient enrollment, but future clinical trials would likely enroll adults living with HIV, especially those with drug-resistant virus or incomplete viral suppression.
Not a fit: People without HIV will not benefit, and patients already well controlled on current antiretroviral therapy may not see immediate benefits from this early-stage work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new antiviral treatments that block HIV particle formation through a mechanism different from existing drugs.
How similar studies have performed: Related laboratory work using allosteric integrase inhibitors and disruption of integrase–host interactions has shown promising results in blocking virus assembly, though these approaches are not yet proven in people.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kalpana, Ganjam V — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Kalpana, Ganjam V
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.