Investigating how HCMV infection affects nerve cell proteins
Official title: HCMV infection downregulates nidogen 1 and myelin protein zero
Funded at University of Idaho · NIH-11074575 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) can cause hearing loss in babies and young kids by using special lab techniques to see how the virus affects important nerve proteins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Idaho NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Moscow, United States) |
| Project start | August 8, 2018 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $363,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI139503-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074575 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include infants and young children diagnosed with congenital HCMV infection or those exhibiting sensorineural hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or those without a diagnosis of HCMV infection or related hearing loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection can lead to congenital birth defects, particularly sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in infants and young children. The study employs a unique three-dimensional co-culture system using human Schwann cells and neurons to observe the effects of HCMV on myelin protein zero (MPZ), which is crucial for nerve function. By examining how HCMV alters MPZ levels, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind hearing loss associated with this viral infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for hearing loss caused by HCMV in infants and children.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been substantial research on HCMV and its effects, this specific approach using a human 3D co-culture system is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Idaho
Moscow, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fortunato, Elizabeth a — University of Idaho
- Study coordinator: Fortunato, Elizabeth a
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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.