How cytomegalovirus microRNAs control viral latency and reactivation
HCMV miRNA regulation of host cell signaling in viral latency and reactivation
This project looks at how tiny viral RNAs help CMV hide in blood stem cells and later wake up, which could help people with weakened immune systems avoid dangerous reactivation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171756 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You will hear about lab work focused on human cytomegalovirus (CMV) in CD34+ blood stem cells, where scientists are following tiny viral molecules called microRNAs that change cell signaling. The team maps how those microRNAs affect pathways such as TGFβ, MEK/ERK, and RhoA and how they work with or against viral proteins. Experiments test effects on cell survival, division, and the signals that trigger the virus to switch from dormant to active. The findings come from molecular and cell biology studies using human-derived cells in a research lab.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people at high risk for CMV reactivation, such as organ transplant recipients or others on long-term immunosuppression.
Not a fit: Healthy people without CMV infection or those with normal immune systems are unlikely to get direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or limit CMV reactivation in people with weakened immune systems.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies have shown CMV microRNAs can change host signaling and influence latency in cell models, but turning those findings into patient treatments remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nelson, Jay a — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Nelson, Jay a
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.