Investigating how a specific immune response affects herpesvirus spread in the nervous system
Official title: The Role of Interferon Lambda in Alpha Herpesvirus Neuroinvasion
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-11133689 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of your immune system called interferon lambda affects the way herpes viruses, like the one that causes cold sores, can enter your nerves, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent or manage these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $471,159 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI185349-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11133689 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are affected by or at risk for infections caused by alpha herpesviruses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of herpesvirus infections or related neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how the immune response, specifically the role of interferon lambda, influences the ability of alpha herpesviruses, like Herpes Simplex Virus-1, to invade the peripheral nervous system. By examining the interactions between infected epithelial cells and peripheral nerves, the study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that allow these viruses to spread. The researchers will use in vitro models to simulate the conditions of viral invasion and assess how cytokines affect viral transport in nerve cells. This could provide insights into preventing or managing herpesvirus infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating herpesvirus infections, potentially reducing the frequency of outbreaks.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses to viral infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koyuncu, Orkide O. — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Koyuncu, Orkide O.
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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.