Investigating how certain SIVs could transmit to humans using humanized mice.
Official title: SIV zoonosis using humanized mice
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10915140 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain monkey viruses might jump to humans by using special mice that have human-like immune systems, helping us learn more about how these viruses change and could potentially cause new infections in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $169,880 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI183895-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915140 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the implications of viral transmission and those who may be at risk for emerging infectious diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not concerned about viral infections or who do not have a history of exposure to similar pathogens may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the potential for select simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) to transmit to humans by utilizing a humanized mouse model. These mice have been engineered to carry human immune systems, allowing researchers to study how SIVs might evolve and adapt for human infection. By simulating cross-species transmission events, the study seeks to enhance our understanding of viral evolution and the emergence of new pathogens, which is crucial for public health surveillance and prevention strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing future viral outbreaks that could affect human health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using humanized mice to study viral transmission, indicating that this approach is promising and has been validated in related contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akkina, Ramesh — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Akkina, Ramesh
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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.