How certain viruses affect the brain's immune response and cause disease
Official title: Meningeal Immunity and Viral Neuropathogenesis
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10914568 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses can get into the brain and cause serious illnesses like meningitis and encephalitis, and it aims to understand how new structures in the protective layers around the brain might help these viruses sneak in, especially after early-life infections, so we can better understand how to protect people in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $769,115 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI183879-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914568 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation would include individuals under 21 years old who have experienced neurotropic virus infections or are at risk of such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral neurological conditions or those over 21 years old may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurotropic viruses, such as flaviviruses and alphaviruses, can enter the central nervous system (CNS) and lead to severe illnesses like meningitis and encephalitis. The study focuses on understanding the role of newly identified structures in the meninges, called arachnoid cuff exit (ACE) points, which may allow these viruses to bypass the blood-brain barrier. By examining how early-life infections impact meningeal immunity, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that increase vulnerability to future infections. Patients may be involved in studies that explore these viral pathways and immune responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for viral infections that affect the brain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral entry mechanisms into the CNS, but the specific focus on ACE points is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Diamond, Michael S — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Diamond, Michael S
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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.