How the structure of influenza virus populations affects their evolution
Impact of intra-host population structure on influenza virus antigenic evolution
This study looks at how the different versions of the flu virus in a person's body can change and adapt to avoid the immune system, which could help us understand how to make better vaccines and treatments for the flu.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10983337 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the genetic structure of influenza virus populations within a host influences the virus's ability to evolve and escape immune responses. By examining factors such as the initial prevalence of viral variants, their emergence over time, their location in infected tissues, and competition among variants, the study aims to understand why certain mutations succeed while others fail. This knowledge could help predict how influenza viruses change and inform strategies for vaccine development and treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing acute influenza infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently infected with influenza or those with chronic respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines and treatments for influenza by enhancing our understanding of how the virus evolves within individuals.
How similar studies have performed: While the study explores novel aspects of viral evolution, similar research has shown that understanding viral population dynamics can lead to significant advancements in infectious disease management.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lowen, Anice C — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Lowen, Anice C
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.