This $987,566 Project Grant awarded by the National Science Foundation (CFDA 47.074 - Biological Sciences) to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) aims to elucidate the fundamental mechanisms of viral self-assembly, from in vitro experiments in test tubes to in vivo processes within host cell cytoplasm. The research will comparatively study the self-assembly of plant (Cowpea Chlorotic Mottle Virus) and mammalian (Hepatitis B) viruses, leveraging a collaborative team of US and French researchers with specialized expertise. The project will utilize a range of experimental techniques, including magnetic resonance, X-ray scattering, and microscopy, combined with computational modeling, to investigate how the crowded cellular environment affects virus assembly compared to in vitro conditions. Findings from this work are expected to enhance the understanding of viral life cycles and support the development of antiviral treatments. The award also includes funding to train graduate students in interdisciplinary concepts spanning physical, chemical, biological, and translational medicine domains. Additionally, the project plan involves active public outreach to enhance scientific awareness. This grant has an award date of December 15, 2024 and a targeted completion by November 30, 2028.
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