How mosquito-borne viruses affect vitamin A metabolism

The mechanism of flaviviral suppression of vitamin A metabolism

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT SCH OF MED/DNT · NIH-10890716

This study is looking at how viruses spread by mosquitoes, like dengue and Zika, change the way our bodies use vitamin A and how this affects our body odors, which might help attract more mosquitoes; the goal is to find new ways to control mosquito populations and reduce the spread of these viruses.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT SCH OF MED/DNT (nih funded)
Locations1 site (FARMINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10890716 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue and Zika, can alter the metabolism of vitamin A in their hosts. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which these viruses manipulate host body odors to attract mosquitoes, thereby enhancing their transmission. By examining the interaction between viral infections and the expression of specific antimicrobial peptides in the skin, the research aims to uncover new insights into virus-host interactions. This could lead to novel strategies for controlling mosquito populations and reducing virus transmission.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been infected with mosquito-borne viruses like dengue or Zika.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with mosquito-borne viruses or those who do not have any vitamin A metabolism issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for preventing the spread of mosquito-borne viruses.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that understanding virus-host interactions can lead to significant advancements in controlling infectious diseases, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

FARMINGTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.