Creating a viral vector from Zika virus to target neuroimmune cells
Engineering a human neuroimmune specific viral vector from Zika virus
This study is exploring a new treatment using a modified Zika virus that targets brain immune cells to help reduce inflammation and support brain health, aiming to find better options for people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11087618 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel viral vector derived from the Zika virus that specifically targets neuroimmune cells, which are crucial in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The approach aims to harness the virus's ability to suppress inflammation and stimulate autophagy in microglia, the brain's immune cells. By refining the beneficial aspects of the Zika virus while minimizing its pathogenic effects, the researchers hope to create effective therapies for conditions that currently lack adequate treatment options. This innovative strategy combines synthetic biology and advanced bioengineering techniques to potentially reshape how we approach neuroimmune therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those who do not have a diagnosis related to neuroinflammation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reduce inflammation and improve outcomes for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of viral vectors in gene therapy is a well-explored area, this specific application of Zika virus-derived vectors for neuroimmune targeting is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Tempe, United States
- Arizona State University-Tempe Campus — Tempe, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bartelle, Benjamin B — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Bartelle, Benjamin B
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.