Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) awarded The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York (RF-SUNY) at the University at Albany a Project Grant of $227,115 under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855) on February 3, 2026, with completion targeted for January 31, 2028. This award supports fundamental research investigating the functional role of adenine-rich (A-rich) sequences within the Zika virus (ZIKV) 3' untranslated region (3' UTR) and their interaction with host cellular RNA binding proteins, particularly poly(A) binding protein 1 (PABP1). The research employs molecular biology techniques including RNA structure analysis, cell-based reporter assays, mass spectrometry, and protein depletion studies to elucidate viral replication mechanisms in both mammalian and mosquito cell systems.

The project directly addresses a critical public health need by advancing scientific understanding of ZIKV molecular biology in the absence of currently available licensed antiviral treatments or vaccines. Research outcomes are expected to identify novel therapeutic targets and inform development strategies for antiviral interventions and vaccine candidates against this re-emerging mosquito-borne flavivirus threat. The work will be conducted at the University at Albany campus in Albany, New York, leveraging RF-SUNY's established research infrastructure and expertise in infectious disease investigations.