How temperature affects the evolution of arboviruses like West Nile virus.
Official title: Arbovirus population biology: temperature impacts on selection and collective dynamics
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10915398 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how warmer temperatures affect the West Nile virus in mosquitoes, helping us understand how the virus might change and adapt as our climate warms, which is important for keeping people healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $335,392 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173206-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915398 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in regions where arboviruses like West Nile virus are prevalent, especially those who may be at risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in areas affected by arboviruses or who are not at risk of infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how rising temperatures influence the evolution and genetic diversity of arboviruses, particularly focusing on the West Nile virus (WNV) within mosquito populations. By examining both constant and fluctuating temperature conditions, the study aims to understand how these environmental factors affect natural selection and virus fitness. The researchers will explore how temperature variations impact the aggregation of virus particles, which may play a role in maintaining genetic diversity among virus strains. This work is crucial for predicting how arboviruses may adapt to changing climates and potentially pose health risks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better predictions of arbovirus outbreaks and inform public health strategies to mitigate their impact.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental factors, including temperature, significantly impact the evolution and spread of arboviruses, suggesting that this approach is grounded in established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ebel, Gregory David — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Ebel, Gregory David
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.