Identifying the gene that controls resistance to certain retroviruses in mice

Identification of the gene controlling murine retrovirus in YBR mice

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-10894752

This study is looking at how certain genes in mice help them fight off infections from a virus that can cause tumors, and by understanding this, researchers hope to find new ways to help people with similar viral infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894752 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific genes in mice influence their ability to resist infections from retroviruses, particularly focusing on the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). By studying different strains of mice, especially the YBR strain, researchers aim to uncover the genetic mechanisms that allow some mice to effectively eliminate the virus without developing tumors. The findings could provide insights into similar mechanisms in humans, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies against retroviral infections. The approach involves genetic mapping and analysis of immune responses in these mice.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would include individuals with a genetic predisposition to viral infections or those at high risk for HIV.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for viral infections or those with unrelated health conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding how to enhance human resistance to retroviral infections like HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to identify genetic factors influencing resistance to viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome VirusCandidate Disease Gene
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.