Developing new antiviral treatments for encephalitic alphaviruses

Center of Excellence for Encephalitic Alphavirus Therapeutics

NIH-funded research University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10563173

This study is working on developing new medications to help fight off certain viruses that can cause serious illness, especially in older adults, with the hope of providing better treatments for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Memphis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10563173 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating effective small molecule drugs to combat Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV), and Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV). The project involves collaboration among several universities, utilizing expertise in virology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacokinetics to optimize potential antiviral compounds. Patients may benefit from new treatments that could prevent or reduce the severity of infections caused by these viruses, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults and seniors who are at higher risk for severe outcomes from alphavirus infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or those without risk factors for alphavirus infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral therapies that significantly improve outcomes for patients infected with encephalitic alphaviruses.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing antiviral treatments for similar viral infections, indicating a potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Memphis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.