Human Antibodies to Fight Brain Infections from Alphaviruses
Human Monoclonal Antibodies for Encephalitic Alphaviruses
This project looks for powerful human antibodies that could help treat severe brain infections caused by mosquito-borne viruses like Eastern equine encephalitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126063 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is a serious mosquito-borne virus that causes a severe brain illness, often leading to death or long-term neurological problems. Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine available for this dangerous infection. This project aims to discover and understand very strong human antibodies that can neutralize EEEV. Researchers will study how these antibodies work at a molecular level and explore ways to optimize their function and deliver them effectively to the brain. This foundational work could pave the way for new life-saving treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is foundational for future treatments, so it would ultimately benefit patients who contract severe alphavirus infections, particularly Eastern equine encephalitis.
Not a fit: Patients without alphavirus infections, or those with mild cases that resolve without severe neurological symptoms, may not directly benefit from this specific treatment approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the first specific treatments for severe alphavirus infections like Eastern equine encephalitis, potentially saving lives and preventing long-term neurological damage.
How similar studies have performed: While specific treatments for EEEV are lacking, the development of monoclonal antibodies has shown success in treating other viral infections, suggesting a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crowe, James E — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Crowe, James E
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.