Exploring the human virome across different ages and environments
Official title: VAST Center: Viromes Across Space(s) and Time
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10990423 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for people of all ages to share samples so we can learn more about the viruses in our bodies and how they affect our health, helping us build a valuable resource for future research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $681,172 |
| NIH project number | 1U54AG089334-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990423 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals from diverse age groups, particularly those under 21, and those who may have lived in unique environments such as Antarctica or have experience with aerospace travel.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not part of the targeted age groups or do not have relevant environmental exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on collecting and analyzing biological samples from individuals of all ages to better understand the human virome, which includes all viruses present in the human body. The study employs standardized procedures to ensure high-quality data collection and processing, while also prioritizing ethical practices for data sharing and access. By collaborating with various cohorts, including those from diverse backgrounds and environments, the research aims to create a comprehensive database that can be used for future virome studies. Patients may have the opportunity to contribute samples, which will help advance our understanding of viral interactions and their implications for health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of viral diseases and better health outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in similar biospecimen collection and virome characterization approaches, indicating a promising potential for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bhatt, Ami Siddharth — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Bhatt, Ami Siddharth
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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.