How bunyaviruses swap genes and what stops dangerous new versions
Molecular and Fitness Barriers to Bunyavirus Reassortment
['FUNDING_R01'] · COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11136389
This project looks at how bunyaviruses mix genetic pieces and what prevents those new combinations from becoming infectious, which could help people at risk from mosquito- or rodent-borne viruses.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (FORT COLLINS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11136389 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you are worried about illnesses spread by mosquitoes or rodents, this work aims to explain why some bunyaviruses can combine their genetic material and why most new combinations fail. The team uses a new lab method called a “minigenome melee” that lets many viral gene combinations compete at once so researchers can see which mixtures survive. They will combine that high-throughput approach with traditional lab experiments in cells and animal/vector models to pinpoint molecular mismatches that block reassortment. The goal is to map evolutionary paths that could let otherwise unfit reassortants become viable.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant does not appear to recruit patients directly; its results are most relevant to people exposed to bunyavirus vectors such as mosquitoes or rodents.
Not a fit: People with no risk of exposure to vector-borne or bunyavirus infections are unlikely to see direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of how dangerous new bunyaviruses could emerge may improve surveillance and early warning, helping prevent outbreaks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown reassortment can change viral traits and host range, but the high-throughput minigenome competition method used here is a relatively new way to study those processes.
Where this research is happening
FORT COLLINS, UNITED STATES
- COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY — FORT COLLINS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STENGLEIN, MARK D. — COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: STENGLEIN, MARK D.
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.