Investigating how flaviviruses use a host protein to enhance their infection process
How flaviviruses hijack a host transmembrane protein chaperone to promote viral infection
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10895465
This study is looking at how the dengue and Zika viruses use a specific part of our cells to help them grow, with the goal of finding new ways to treat these infections since there are no good medicines or vaccines for them right now.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10895465 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) exploit a specific host protein complex, known as the Endoplasmic Reticulum Membrane Protein Complex (EMC), to facilitate their replication. By studying the cellular pathways involved in flavivirus infection, the researchers aim to identify potential new targets for antiviral treatments. The approach includes detailed analysis of how the EMC supports the production of viral proteins essential for the viruses' life cycle. This work is crucial as there are currently no effective antiviral agents or vaccines available for these viruses in the United States.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of dengue or Zika virus infections, particularly those living in or traveling to endemic areas.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for dengue or Zika virus infections, such as those living in non-endemic regions, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral therapies or vaccines for dengue and Zika viruses, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting host cellular pathways for antiviral strategies, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TAI, ANDREW W. — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: TAI, ANDREW W.
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 below.