Investigating how bacteria can help control mosquito-borne viruses
Official title: The Epigenetics of Cytoplasmic Incompatibility
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11085300 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special bacteria called Wolbachia can help control the spread of diseases carried by mosquitoes by changing how they reproduce, which could lead to new ways to reduce mosquito numbers or create mosquitoes that don't spread viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | May 7, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $597,151 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179743-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085300 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas affected by arboviral infections, such as dengue or Zika virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in regions impacted by mosquito-borne diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Wolbachia bacteria in controlling the spread of arboviral infections by altering mosquito reproduction. The approach involves understanding how these bacteria can block virus replication and drive their own spread within mosquito populations through a process called cytoplasmic incompatibility. By studying the genetic and epigenetic changes in mosquito sperm, the research aims to develop effective strategies for reducing mosquito populations or replacing them with virus-resistant individuals. This could lead to innovative methods for managing diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the transmission of mosquito-borne viruses, improving public health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using Wolbachia for vector control, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bordenstein, Seth R — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Bordenstein, Seth R
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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.