Investigating balance problems caused by Lassa virus infection
Official title: Balance Dysfunction Induced by Lassa Virus Infection
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10981527 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Lassa virus infection can cause balance problems and dizziness in survivors, using mice to learn more about what happens in the inner ear and how we might help people feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | August 23, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $647,643 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC021542-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10981527 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have survived Lassa fever and are experiencing balance issues or hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with Lassa virus or do not exhibit symptoms related to balance dysfunction or hearing loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how Lassa virus infection leads to balance dysfunction and dizziness in survivors. By using a mouse model of Lassa fever, the researchers will examine the changes in the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance, over time after infection. The study aims to identify the cellular and behavioral changes that occur and to explore potential treatments to alleviate these symptoms. Ultimately, the goal is to translate these findings into effective prevention and treatment strategies for affected humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for balance dysfunction and hearing loss in patients who have survived Lassa fever.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach to studying balance dysfunction post-Lassa virus infection may be novel, similar research has shown that viral infections can lead to vestibular disorders, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Makishima, Tomoko — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Makishima, Tomoko
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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.