How a virus affects metabolism and causes birth defects
Metabolic modulation by the HCMV UL38 gene
This study is looking at how a virus called Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) changes the way our cells use energy, which can cause serious health problems for babies and people with weakened immune systems, and it focuses on a specific part of the virus to find new ways to help treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10764221 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) alters cellular metabolism, which can lead to congenital birth defects and severe diseases in immunosuppressed patients. The study focuses on a specific viral protein, UL38, and its role in modifying metabolic processes to support viral replication. By understanding these mechanisms, researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic targets that could mitigate the effects of HCMV infection. The research involves laboratory experiments to explore the interactions between the virus and host cells, particularly how they influence metabolic pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals at risk of HCMV infection and immunosuppressed patients, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or organ transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by HCMV or do not have congenital defects related to the virus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce the impact of congenital birth defects caused by HCMV.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral interactions with host metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munger, Joshua C — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Munger, Joshua 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.