How hepatitis C spreads and becomes drug resistant
Collaborative Integration of HCV Molecular Virology and Mathematical Modeling
['FUNDING_R01'] · LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO · NIH-11088206
This project uses lab work and computer models to learn how hepatitis C moves between cells and sometimes resists antiviral drugs so treatments and prevention can be improved for people with HCV.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11088206 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, researchers combine detailed lab experiments on hepatitis C with computer-based mathematical models to see how the virus spreads in the body and in blood. They study how the virus moves directly between liver cells and how that cell-to-cell spread can help it escape antiviral drugs. The team also uses treatment data and patient blood samples to model when and how drug-resistant viruses emerge. The goal is to use those lab and computer insights to guide better treatment strategies and reduce the chance resistant viruses get passed on in the community.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic hepatitis C infection, especially those starting therapy or who have had incomplete responses to direct-acting antivirals, would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People without hepatitis C or those who were cured long ago would not be expected to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reduce the emergence and spread of drug-resistant hepatitis C and help improve treatment plans and elimination efforts.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies combining patient viral data, lab experiments, and mathematical models have successfully clarified HCV treatment dynamics and revealed mechanisms like the dual action of NS5A inhibitors, though applying these insights to prevent resistance spread is still evolving.
Where this research is happening
MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES
- LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO — MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: UPRICHARD, SUSAN L. — LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: UPRICHARD, SUSAN L.
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.