How West Nile Virus Spreads in the Body
Identification of the initial cells infected by West Nile virus ex vivo and in vivo
['FUNDING_R01'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-11137779
This project aims to discover which cells West Nile virus first infects in the body after a mosquito bite, helping us create better ways to fight the infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137779 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
West Nile virus is a serious infection that can affect the brain and nervous system, and currently, there are no specific vaccines or treatments available. To develop effective therapies, it's crucial to understand how the virus initially spreads after a mosquito bite. Researchers are using advanced laboratory models, including human tissue, to pinpoint the very first cells the virus infects. This work focuses on identifying these initial target cells, particularly within the immune system, to uncover new weaknesses of the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical trials stemming from this work would seek individuals infected with or at risk for West Nile virus.
Not a fit: Patients currently seeking immediate treatment for West Nile virus will not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational understanding could lead to the development of new vaccines or antiviral treatments for West Nile virus by targeting its early stages of infection.
How similar studies have performed: While previous lab studies have suggested certain immune cells are targets, this project uses more advanced human tissue models to confirm and expand upon those findings, making its approach novel in its physiological relevance.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LIM, JEAN KYOU — ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- Study coordinator: LIM, JEAN KYOU
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.