Investigating how HCMV infection affects nerve cell proteins related to hearing loss.
Official title: HCMV infection downregulates nidogen 1 and myelin protein zero
Funded at University of Idaho · NIH-11291031 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) affects nerve cells and their ability to produce a key protein needed for proper nerve function, which could help us understand hearing loss in children who have been infected with the virus.
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) | $125,938 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AI139503-06S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11291031 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who have been diagnosed with congenital HCMV infection or related hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by HCMV or do not have hearing loss related to this infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the impact of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection on nerve cells, particularly how it affects the production of myelin protein zero (MPZ), which is crucial for nerve function. By using a unique three-dimensional co-culture system of human Schwann cells and neurons, the study aims to explore the mechanisms behind sensorineural hearing loss in children infected with HCMV. The approach involves examining how HCMV alters MPZ levels and myelination, which could provide insights into congenital birth defects associated with the virus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for hearing loss in children caused by HCMV infection.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been substantial research on HCMV and its effects, this specific approach using an all-human 3D co-culture system is relatively novel.
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
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.