How unusual RSV viral copies affect illness
Defective viral genomes in RSV pathogenesis
This project finds out how unusual versions of the RSV virus change how sick children and adults become.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11284096 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be hearing about tiny, altered pieces of the RSV virus called copy-back genomes (cbVGs) that form when the virus replicates. Researchers will study these cbVGs in lab tests, animal models, and samples from children and adults with RSV to see how their presence and timing relate to symptoms. They will look at viral and patient factors that make cbVGs appear and use sequencing and immune measurements to link cbVG patterns with disease severity. The team aims to identify patterns that could help explain why some people get mild illness while others develop severe bronchiolitis or need hospitalization.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children and adults with recent or current RSV infection, including those with bronchiolitis or hospitalized for respiratory symptoms, would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People without RSV infection or those needing immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to tests that predict who is likely to get severe RSV and point to new ways to prevent or reduce severe illness.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work, including studies by this research team, shows these defective genomes trigger antiviral responses and relate to disease outcomes, but using them for diagnosis or therapy remains a new approach.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lopez, Carolina B. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Lopez, Carolina B.
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.