Exploring how viruses use and affect cellular metabolism.
Uncovering and harnessing connected metabolic pathways essential to virus infection.
This study looks at how certain tiny molecules called polyamines help different RNA viruses, like the ones that cause Rift Valley fever, Zika, and Coxsackievirus, to grow and survive, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Loyola University Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Maywood, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10928089 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of polyamines, small molecules crucial for cell function, in the replication of various RNA viruses. By examining how these viruses manipulate polyamine metabolism at different stages of their life cycle, the study aims to uncover the connections between polyamines and other metabolic pathways. The research utilizes models of Rift Valley fever virus, Zika virus, and Coxsackievirus to understand how these pathogens adapt to polyamine depletion and how this knowledge can inform potential therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals infected with RNA viruses such as Zika, dengue, or Coxsackievirus.
Not a fit: Patients with infections caused by viruses not studied in this research may not receive any benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that inhibit virus replication by targeting metabolic pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting metabolic pathways can effectively limit viral replication, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Maywood, United States
- Loyola University Chicago — Maywood, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mounce, Bryan C — Loyola University Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mounce, Bryan C
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.