Controlling eye infections caused by herpes virus
Therapeutic control of HSK by CD80
This project aims to find new ways to help the immune system fight off herpes simplex virus eye infections and prevent vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10997414 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) can cause serious eye infections that lead to corneal scarring and potential blindness. After an initial infection, the virus can hide in nerve cells and reactivate later, causing repeat infections. This research explores how the virus weakens the body's immune response in the eye and nerves, specifically by suppressing a molecule called CD80. By understanding these viral strategies, we hope to develop better ways to boost the immune system, prevent the virus from hiding, and stop it from reactivating. Ultimately, this work could lead to new treatments or vaccines to protect your vision from recurrent herpes eye infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies based on this work would benefit individuals who suffer from recurrent herpes simplex eye infections.
Not a fit: Patients without herpes simplex virus eye infections would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or vaccines that prevent recurrent herpes eye infections and protect vision.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown some success in protecting against eye disease, and this research builds on those findings to explore a novel immune-boosting approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghiasi, Homayon — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ghiasi, Homayon
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.