How flu virus genes and particle shape control how many viruses infect each cell
Genetic and biophysical mechanisms that control influenza virus cellular multiplicity of infection
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11285163
This work looks at whether differences in flu virus genes and the virus particle's shape change how many viruses enter each cell and how the infection spreads in people with the flu.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11285163 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists will study influenza virus particles and infected cells in the lab to see how genetic differences and physical features like particle shape and surface proteins (HA, NA, M1) affect spread. They will alter viral genes and measure how particles attach, are released, and move between nearby cells using imaging and quantitative assays. The team will compare how cells that receive different amounts of virus either produce new virus or kick off antiviral defenses. Together these experiments aim to link virus genetics and biophysics to patterns of infection growth at the cellular level.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with recent laboratory-confirmed influenza or those willing to donate nasal or respiratory samples for laboratory study would be the most relevant contributors.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment for their current flu symptoms should not expect direct clinical benefit from participating in this lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new ways to block early viral spread or improve vaccine and antiviral design to reduce severe flu infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies have shown that HA, NA, and particle shape influence viral spread, and this project builds on that work by combining genetic and biophysical approaches to map spatial patterns of infection.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VAHEY, MICHAEL D — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: VAHEY, MICHAEL 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.