How blood transfusions affect infections from viruses like chikungunya
Official title: Transfusion-related immunomodulation influences infectious disease outcomes
Funded at Vitalant · NIH-10634538 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blood transfusions might help people fight off infections from viruses like chikungunya during big outbreaks, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how blood donations could improve health outcomes for those affected by these viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vitalant NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $623,056 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL153073-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10634538 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have received blood transfusions during outbreaks of arboviral infections or those at risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not received blood transfusions or are not at risk for arboviral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how blood transfusions may influence the outcomes of infections caused by arboviruses, particularly during large epidemics. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which transfusions could potentially alter the immune response to viruses like chikungunya, which can lead to serious health complications. The study involves examining blood samples and immune responses in both animal models and human cases to determine if transfusion-related immunomodulation can mitigate the severity of viral infections. By analyzing the interactions between blood components and the immune system, the research aims to uncover new insights into managing viral infections transmitted through blood.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing and preventing severe outcomes from viral infections transmitted through blood transfusions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, preliminary data suggests that transfusion-related immunomodulation may influence viral outcomes, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Vitalant
Scottsdale, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simmons, Graham — Vitalant
- Study coordinator: Simmons, Graham
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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.