# Viral Gene Editing and Bioinformatics Core for Institution # 269291

> **NIH NIH P30** · TEMPLE UNIV OF THE COMMONWEALTH · 2022 · $249,999

## Abstract

SUMMARY
The overall objective of the Viral Gene Editing and Bioinformatics Core (VGEBC) is to provide basic and clinical
researchers with knowledge and familiarity with the latest technology involving a genetic approach, including
gene editing to investigate the neuroscience of HIV and exploring novel strategies for suppressing viral infection.
The VGEBC will offer access to a comprehensive and integrated CRISPR gene editing design and
implementation pipeline. Our collaborative, multi-institutional team of experts will provide guidance, training and
shared resources allowing successful utilization of the CRISPR technology in projects focused on a better
understanding of the mechanisms of neuroHIV and the discovery of reliable biomarkers for early diagnosis and
development of intelligent therapies toward a cure. The services will include canonical DNA editors: SpCas9 and
SaCas9, novel CasX and CasY, RNA editing Cas13, and CRISPR-mediated gene expression regulation using
catalytically dead Cas9 (dCas9) fused to a variety of effector domains. Additionally, the Core will test and
implement new upgrades to existing and novel gene editors as they emerge from the literature. The design and
selection of optimal gRNAs will be performed with the assistance of the co-director and his bioinformatics team.
The Core's unique expertise in gene editing, bioinformatics sequence analysis, and gene delivery, and the cross-
collaboration between two universities will be used to guide investigators in: i) the design of the most up-to-date
and safe gene-editing techniques; ii) the utilization of the latest bioinformatic pipeline to maximize in target and
minimize off-target effects; iii) the development strategies for activation or suppression of gene transcription; iv)
the employment the most accurate and cost-effective genomic sequencing with long-read technology. Our Core
will work closely with the other cores of the CNHC to promote a comprehensive, synergistic, multidisciplinary
collaborative program. Primary patient-derived cells will be available through the Clinical and Translational
Research Support Core (CTRSC) in conjunction with the NeuroHIV Community Partnership and Disparity Core
(NHCPDC); and cell lines and cell culture models will be available through the Cell Biology and Functional
Analyses Core (CBFAC). Biostatistical support will be provided through the Central Administrative and
Management Core (CAMC). We will provide expertise and services to pilot project awardees through interactions
with the Developmental Research and Mentorship Core (DRMC). This synergistic approach will ensure the
success of the CNHC developmental award recipients and users in conducting productive high-impact research
in neuroHIV research.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10475410
- **Project number:** 2P30MH092177-11A1
- **Recipient organization:** TEMPLE UNIV OF THE COMMONWEALTH
- **Principal Investigator:** Kamel Khalili
- **Activity code:** P30 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $249,999
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 2011-08-05 → 2027-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10475410

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10475410, Viral Gene Editing and Bioinformatics Core for Institution # 269291 (2P30MH092177-11A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10475410. Licensed CC0.

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