How ancient viruses shaped human DNA
Ancient viral threats through the lens of adaptation in human genomes
This project looks for signs in human genomes showing which viruses affected our ancestors, to help identify viruses that could threaten people today.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140381 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work looks through large collections of human DNA for genetic "footprints" left by ancient viruses that affected our ancestors. Scientists will use advanced computer tools, including machine learning and ancestral recombination graphs, to find and date those footprints. They will then study how the identified genetic changes altered immune genes and responses. The goal is to spot virus families that caused past epidemics and might threaten people again.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have donated DNA to research biobanks or who participate in large genetic studies are the most likely source of data for this work.
Not a fit: Individuals seeking immediate clinical treatment for current infections are unlikely to receive direct medical benefit from this basic genetic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help public health officials prioritize surveillance, vaccines, and treatments against virus families most likely to spark future pandemics.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have found signals of ancient viral adaptation in human genes, but combining ancestral recombination graph methods with machine learning is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Enard, David — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Enard, David
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.