How virus RNA shapes immune detection and control in alphavirus infections
Regulation of RNA sensing and viral restriction by RNA structures
This project looks at how tiny folded parts of alphavirus RNA change how immune cells spot and stop the virus, which could help people at risk of encephalitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11292377 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers at the University of Washington are studying how specific folded regions of alphavirus RNA influence how the immune system recognizes and restricts the virus. In the lab they will compare virulent and avirulent Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) and modify RNA regions such as the 5' and 3' untranslated regions and the E1 gene to see how those changes affect replication in immune cells called macrophages and in animal models. They will measure interferon responses and the activity of antiviral proteins like IFIT1 and IFIT2 to link RNA structure to immune escape. The work uses cell cultures and animal studies and may include analysis of human-derived samples to relate findings to disease in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have had or are at risk of alphavirus infection (for example VEEV exposure or encephalitis) or who are willing to donate blood or tissue samples for research would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients with health problems unrelated to alphaviruses or who cannot provide samples or travel to the study site are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this lab-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify viral RNA features to target with new antiviral drugs or improved vaccines to prevent or treat alphavirus encephalitis.
How similar studies have performed: Similar laboratory work has shown that RNA structures can alter immune recognition for other viruses, but applying these insights specifically to VEEV's E1 and UTR regions is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hyde, Jennifer Lynn — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Hyde, Jennifer Lynn
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.