Investigating how certain viruses interact with their hosts and affect their health.

The role of mammarenavirus defective interfering particles in protecting host fitness and the host-driven post-translational modifications that regulate their formation and function

NIH-funded research University of Vermont & St Agric College · NIH-10892694

This study is looking at how certain particles made by arenaviruses affect the way these viruses behave and how our immune system responds, which could help us understand why some viruses stick around in animals and how they might impact our health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Burlington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10892694 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding defective interfering particles (DIPs) produced by arenaviruses and their role in viral pathogenesis and host immunity. The team aims to identify the cellular mechanisms that regulate the production of these particles and how they influence the health of the host. By utilizing advanced genetic techniques, they will explore how specific cellular modifications affect the balance between infectious and defective viral particles. This work could provide insights into the persistence of zoonotic viruses in their animal reservoirs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to arenaviruses or are at risk of zoonotic infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by viral infections or do not have a history of exposure to arenaviruses may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing viral infections and improving host health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral interactions with hosts, but this specific approach to studying DIPs is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Burlington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.