How intestinal cells in C. elegans respond to viral infections
Official title: Innate immunity against viral infection in intestinal epithelial cells of C. elegans
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10996131 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny worms called C. elegans fight off viruses, like the Orsay virus, to learn more about how our own immune systems work when facing infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 20, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $374,803 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI176639-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996131 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would be individuals interested in understanding immune responses to viral infections, particularly those affected by RNA viruses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to viral infections or those not affected by RNA viruses may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune responses of intestinal epithelial cells in the model organism C. elegans when exposed to viral infections, specifically focusing on the Orsay virus. The researchers aim to understand how these cells detect and respond to viruses, which is crucial since they are often the first line of defense against infections. By studying the mechanisms of antiviral responses in a whole-animal context, the research seeks to uncover the roles of specific receptors and the involvement of surrounding cells in mounting an immune response. This work could provide insights into fundamental immune processes that may be applicable to human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing antiviral immunity in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune responses in model organisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Troemel, Emily R — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Troemel, Emily R
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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.