How cells naturally block enterovirus infections
Cell intrinsic antiviral mechanisms targeting human enteroviruses
This research looks for human genes that help cells stop enteroviruses that can cause meningitis, myocarditis, hand‑foot‑and‑mouth disease, and paralysis in infants and children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11285225 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will identify human genes that act inside cells to block enteroviruses, studying both genes that are always present and those turned on by interferon. They will examine TRIM7, a protein already shown in the lab to degrade a viral protein, and run large‑scale screens to find other antiviral effectors. Experiments include tests in human cell cultures and mouse models of enterovirus infection, plus trials of lipid nanoparticle delivery of candidate antiviral genes in animals. The goal is to map how cells defend against enteroviruses and to point toward new treatment approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Infants and children with recent or severe enterovirus infections (such as meningitis, myocarditis, hand‑foot‑and‑mouth disease, or acute flaccid myelitis) would be the most relevant group for future trial opportunities or sample donation.
Not a fit: People without enterovirus infection or with illnesses caused by other pathogens are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new antiviral targets or gene‑delivery approaches that might prevent or treat severe enterovirus disease in infants and children.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab studies, including work showing TRIM7 can block enterovirus replication in cells, support the approach, but broad screening and in‑animal gene‑delivery are newer and less proven.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schoggins, John W. — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Schoggins, John W.
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.