Improving antibody treatments for newborns with herpes infections
Understanding and optimizing antibody-based interventions against neonatal HSV infection
This study is looking at how antibodies from mothers can help protect newborns from serious herpes infections, and it aims to find the best ways to use these antibodies to keep babies safe and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dartmouth College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hanover, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906996 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how antibodies can protect newborns from herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, which can be severe and life-threatening. The study investigates the transfer of maternal antibodies to infants and how these antibodies can neutralize the virus and activate the immune system. By using a novel mouse model, researchers aim to explore the effectiveness of these antibodies in preventing infection and reducing the risk of long-term neurological damage in newborns. The goal is to optimize antibody-based interventions that could be used in clinical settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns at risk of HSV infection, particularly those born to mothers who are seronegative for the virus.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than four weeks or those who have already been infected with HSV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that significantly reduce the risk of severe HSV infections in newborns.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using maternal antibodies to protect newborns from viral infections, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Hanover, United States
- Dartmouth College — Hanover, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ackerman, Margaret E — Dartmouth College
- Study coordinator: Ackerman, Margaret 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.