How cell metabolism helps fight human cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Metabolism and HCMV: determinants of the antiviral state
Researchers are looking at how immune signals change cell metabolism to stop human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), which can harm newborns and people with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11243491 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you or a loved one is affected by CMV, this work looks at how immune signals change cell metabolism to keep the virus from spreading. The team will run lab experiments in human cells to identify the metabolic pathways turned on by cytokines like TNFα and test how those changes limit HCMV. They will also study the HCMV protein UL26 to learn how the virus blocks antiviral gene responses. The hope is that these findings will point to new ways to prevent or treat CMV infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll people, but its findings are most relevant to pregnant people at risk for congenital CMV and to patients with weakened immune systems.
Not a fit: People without CMV exposure or those needing immediate clinical care are unlikely to benefit directly from this lab-based research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal new drug targets or strategies to prevent congenital CMV and to treat severe CMV in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies show cytokines can rewire cell metabolism to limit viruses, but the detailed mechanisms and the role of HCMV UL26 are relatively new and less tested.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munger, Joshua C — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Munger, Joshua C
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.