Investigating how a rotavirus protein helps it evade the immune system
Official title: Mechanistic Investigation of a Rotavirus Auxiliary Protein NSP6 Countering Host Defense
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11107325 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a part of the rotavirus called NSP6 to see how it helps the virus avoid the immune system in young kids, using special techniques and baby mice to learn more about how this could lead to better ways to prevent and treat rotavirus infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 20, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $593,021 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI189930-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11107325 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants and young children under 11 years old who are at risk for severe gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or those who do not have rotavirus infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific rotavirus protein, NSP6, which is believed to help the virus evade the host's immune defenses. By using advanced techniques like reverse genetics and organoid cultures, the researchers aim to explore how NSP6 affects rotavirus replication and the immune response in young children. The study involves animal models, particularly neonatal mice, to observe the effects of a modified rotavirus lacking NSP6. The findings could provide insights into new strategies for preventing and treating rotavirus infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines or treatments for rotavirus infections in infants and young children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral mechanisms of immune evasion, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ding, Siyuan — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Ding, Siyuan
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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.