How a tiny RNA tag affects dengue and related viruses
Defining the role of the RNA modification N6-methyladenosine during Flaviviridae virus infection
Researchers are looking at how a small chemical tag on viral and human RNA influences dengue and related infections to help people affected by these viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11285174 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work looks at a chemical modification on RNA called N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and how it changes during dengue and related virus infections. Scientists will map where m6A marks appear on viral genomes and on infected human cells, identify the enzymes and reader proteins that place or bind those marks, and test how altering these marks changes virus replication and particle production in laboratory models. Methods include RNA mapping, protein interaction studies, and viral replication assays in cell systems. The aim is to reveal molecular steps the virus relies on that could become targets for new antiviral approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would be people who have had a recent dengue infection or are willing to donate blood or tissue samples for research at the study site.
Not a fit: People with health conditions unrelated to dengue or other flavivirus infections are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could reveal new molecular targets that lead to antiviral drugs or therapies that limit dengue virus replication or severity.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown that m6A affects hepatitis C virus and other flaviviruses, so this work builds on promising early findings.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Horner, Stacy Michelle — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Horner, Stacy Michelle
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.