How some viruses harm developing brains by targeting the ANKLE2 protein
Molecular mechanisms linking viral replication and neuropathogenesis
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-11258409
This project works to understand how viruses like Zika interact with a human protein called ANKLE2 and lead to microcephaly in developing babies.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11258409 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If my baby could be affected by congenital viral infections, this research looks at how a viral protein (NS4A) binds to the human ANKLE2 protein and disrupts brain cell division. The team uses lab models including fruit flies and cell-based systems to map the protein interactions and to see how those interactions both help virus replication and harm brain development. They compare how hereditary ANKLE2 mutations and viral disruption produce similar brain defects to connect genetic and infection-related causes. Findings aim to clarify the molecular steps that lead to virus-caused microcephaly.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is primarily lab-based research, but it is most relevant to pregnant people and families affected by congenital infections such as Zika or congenital CMV who are concerned about microcephaly.
Not a fit: People without risk of congenital viral infection or those with unrelated neurological conditions are unlikely to directly benefit from this basic-science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular targets to prevent or reduce virus-induced microcephaly and lower viral replication in the developing brain.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown Zika NS4A interacts with ANKLE2 and disrupts brain development in fruit fly models, but translating these findings to human treatments remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
DAVIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS — DAVIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHAH, PRIYA SHIRISH — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS
- Study coordinator: SHAH, PRIYA SHIRISH
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.