How HSV-1 Change Over Time in Skin Cells
Official title: The Evolutionary Flexibility of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 in Different Cellular Contexts
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11466102 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study exploring how herpes simplex virus 1 evolves in skin cells to understand drug resistance and why infections recur.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $549,764 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI203226-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11466102 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults with HSV-1 infection or those at risk of infection who could benefit from improved treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without HSV-1 infection or those not involved in future trials may not benefit directly.
What this research studies
This project looks at how HSV-1 genetic differences arise when the virus is grown in different skin cell models, including primary skin cells, cell lines, and skin organoids. By tracking changes over repeated passages, researchers aim to map where mutations appear and how these changes could lead to antiviral drug resistance. The work combines laboratory evolution with real-world viral populations to connect lab findings with patient infections. Results could inform better treatments and prevention strategies for people who experience recurrent HSV-1 outbreaks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to improved antiviral therapies and strategies to prevent HSV-1 drug resistance and transmission.
How similar studies have gone: Previous similar work in viral evolution has provided insights into mutation patterns and resistance, though applicability to HSV-1 in human skin is ongoing.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Szpara, Moriah — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Szpara, Moriah
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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.