How an intestinal immune sensor and gut bacteria make Coxsackievirus B3 infections worse
Intestinal NOD2 and the microbiota enhance Coxsackievirus B3 pathogenesis
Researchers are looking at whether an intestinal immune sensor called NOD2 and the gut microbiome make Coxsackievirus B3 infections worse for people exposed to the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11243492 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how a gut immune sensor called NOD2 and the community of gut bacteria affect Coxsackievirus B3, a virus that starts in the gut and can later cause pancreatitis, myocarditis, or nervous-system problems. In the lab the team will use intestinal epithelial cells and animal models to track viral replication, spread, and the immune signals triggered by NOD2 and its partner RIP2. They will also manipulate the microbiota to see how different bacterial communities change virus outcomes. The goal is to understand the mechanisms so researchers can consider ways to alter the microbiome or block harmful NOD2 signaling.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had or are at risk for Coxsackievirus B infections, especially those with myocarditis, pancreatitis, or intestinal inflammation, would be the most relevant candidates for related patient-focused efforts.
Not a fit: People without exposure to enteric viruses or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or reduce severe outcomes from Coxsackievirus B3 by targeting NOD2 signaling or changing the gut microbiome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research shows NOD2 can boost antiviral interferon responses for some viruses but may worsen Coxsackievirus-related heart inflammation, so this project builds on mixed and partly novel findings.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keestra-Gounder, Arina Marijke — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Keestra-Gounder, Arina Marijke
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.