How mTOR changes affect poxvirus infections
The role of mTOR dysregulation in poxvirus infection
['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11221400
This work looks at how changes in a cell-control system called mTOR affect poxvirus infections like monkeypox, with the goal of informing better ways to prevent or treat them.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11221400 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine how poxviruses interact with the mTOR pathway using lab-grown human cells and viral models to see how viruses make proteins and build their replication sites. They will study how these interactions change the cell’s metabolism and immune sensing systems that normally detect viruses. The team will use molecular experiments such as protein binding and pathway analysis to map which parts of mTOR signaling the viruses hijack or disrupt. Findings may guide future efforts to develop targeted antivirals or improve the safety and use of poxvirus-based vaccines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had or are at risk for poxvirus infections (for example monkeypox or molluscum contagiosum) or who can donate clinical samples could be relevant to related human studies.
Not a fit: Those without poxvirus exposure or people seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to get direct benefits from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new cellular targets to block poxvirus replication, helping to create better antiviral drugs or safer vaccine platforms.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab studies show that mTOR influences replication of several viruses, but applying this knowledge specifically to poxviruses is relatively new and remains experimental.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WALSH, DEREK — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WALSH, DEREK
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.