How AMPK and Hippo signaling affect the eye's response to Zika virus infection

Interplay between AMPK and Hippo Signaling Regulates Ocular Antiviral Response to Zika virus infection

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10759426

This study is looking at how the Zika virus can affect the development and health of the eyes in babies, aiming to understand the changes that happen in the cells and how this might lead to vision problems, with hopes of finding new ways to help those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10759426 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which the Zika virus affects eye development and function, particularly in infants. It focuses on how specific cellular signaling pathways, namely AMPK and Hippo, are altered during Zika virus infection and how these changes impact the immune response and cellular health in the eye. By using advanced cell culture systems and mouse models, the study aims to uncover the molecular processes that lead to vision impairment associated with Zika virus. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies to protect or restore vision in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants diagnosed with congenital Zika virus infection who exhibit ocular abnormalities.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of Zika virus infection or related ocular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that mitigate vision loss in infants affected by Zika virus.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral impacts on cellular signaling pathways, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Functional disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.