Hormonal control of HSV-1 in nerve cells
Official title: Hormonal Regulation of HSV-1 Replication in Neurons
Funded at University of Maryland Eastern Shore · NIH-11386578 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project looks at how thyroid hormone may control herpes simplex virus type 1 replication in neurons and potentially reduce nerve-related complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Eastern Shore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princess Anne, United States) |
| Project start | August 13, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $363,969 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS138288-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11386578 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with HSV-1 infection or related neuropathic complications who may benefit from strategies that limit viral replication in neurons.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without HSV-1 neural involvement or those not affected by viral reactivation may not benefit.
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how thyroid hormone (T3) interacts with nerve cells to influence HSV-1 behavior in the nervous system. They will explore how the hormone’s receptor binds to the virus’s regulatory regions and how neuronal excitability affects viral replication. The work uses neuronal models and animal studies to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new ways to prevent HSV-1 reactivation and nerve damage. The goal is to translate these findings into strategies that could help patients experience fewer neuropathic problems linked to HSV-1.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new approaches to reduce HSV-1 reactivation and its nerve-related complications.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggest thyroid hormone can influence HSV-1 regulation in neurons, with prior observations linking levothyroxine use to lower herpes zoster risk.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Princess Anne, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsia, Shaochung Victor — University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Study coordinator: Hsia, Shaochung Victor
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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.