How stress affects the reactivation of a common virus in the body
Stress-Mediated Regulation of HSV-1 Reactivation from Latency
['FUNDING_R01'] · OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY STILLWATER · NIH-10782471
This study is looking at how stress can wake up the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) from its sleep in the body, especially in the nervous system, and how medications like dexamethasone might make this happen more often, so people with HSV-1 can better understand how stress affects their symptoms and find new ways to manage their condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY STILLWATER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STILLWATER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10782471 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how external stressors can trigger the reactivation of the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) from its dormant state in the body, particularly in the nervous system. The study focuses on the role of corticosteroids, like dexamethasone, in enhancing this reactivation process. By examining the interactions between stress-induced factors and viral gene expression, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to recurrent ocular diseases and encephalitis associated with HSV-1. Patients may benefit from understanding how stress impacts their condition and exploring potential therapeutic interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of HSV-1 infections, particularly those experiencing recurrent ocular disease or encephalitis.
Not a fit: Patients who have never been infected with HSV-1 or those with other unrelated viral infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing HSV-1 reactivation and its associated complications in patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that stress can influence viral reactivation, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into HSV-1 management.
Where this research is happening
STILLWATER, UNITED STATES
- OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY STILLWATER — STILLWATER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: JONES, CLINTON J — OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY STILLWATER
- Study coordinator: JONES, CLINTON J
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease