Federal Grant Award Summary

Western University of Health Sciences received a $144,000 Project Grant awarded June 19, 2026, from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855). The award supports research investigating how HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) manipulates the interferon system to evade immune detection and persist within host cells. Specifically, the research will examine the mechanisms by which HIV accessory proteins VPU and NEF target IPS-1 (interferon promoter-stimulating factor 1), a critical adaptor protein required for interferon induction, leading to its degradation and subsequent inhibition of type I interferon production.

The primary research deliverable is a comprehensive mechanistic analysis of HIV's immune evasion strategy across multiple cell types including CD4+ T helper cells and macrophages. The two-year project (concluding May 31, 2028) will produce peer-reviewed research findings on how HIV suppresses the type I interferon signaling pathway, a fundamental understanding that may inform development of therapeutic interventions to enhance antiviral immune responses. This research aligns with NIAID's mission to fund biomedical investigations into infectious and immunologic diseases through competitive, merit-reviewed grants that advance scientific knowledge and protect public health.