How thyroid hormone affects the behavior of the herpes virus in nerve cells
Official title: Hormonal Regulation of HSV-1 Replication in Neurons
Funded at University of Maryland Eastern Shore · NIH-10942534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how thyroid hormone affects the herpes simplex virus in nerve cells, with the goal of understanding why the virus can hide out and what might help it reactivate, which could lead to better ways to manage related nerve issues for people with HSV-1.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Eastern Shore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princess Anne, United States) |
| Project start | August 13, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $363,969 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS138288-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10942534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of HSV-1 infection, particularly those experiencing recurrent neuropathic symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never been infected with HSV-1 or those without any neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of thyroid hormone in regulating the replication of the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in neurons. The study aims to understand how the virus can become dormant in nerve cells and what factors, such as thyroid hormone, influence its reactivation. By examining the interaction between thyroid hormone and viral gene expression, researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better management of HSV-1 related neuropathic complications. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and analysis of patient data to support the findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the frequency and severity of herpes virus reactivation in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding viral behavior in neurons, but this specific approach focusing on thyroid hormone is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Princess Anne, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsia, Shaochung Victor — University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Study coordinator: Hsia, Shaochung Victor
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.