Investigating how HSV-1 infection affects brain cell development and function
Effects of HSV-1 infection on neural progenitor cell biology in vitro and in vivo
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10825440
This study is looking at how the herpes virus can affect brain cells that help with brain growth and healing, using both lab-grown brain cells and mice, to better understand the long-term effects of the virus on memory and brain health for people who have had HSV-1 encephalitis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10825440 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the impact of Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) on neural progenitor cells (NPCs), which are crucial for brain development and repair. The study will utilize both three-dimensional cultures of human brain cells and a mouse model to explore how HSV-1 infection influences the growth, differentiation, and movement of these cells. By examining these interactions, the research aims to uncover potential reservoirs of the virus in the brain and the long-term effects of infection on brain function, particularly in areas related to memory. This could lead to insights into the neurological complications faced by survivors of HSV-1 encephalitis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced HSV-1 encephalitis or are at risk of HSV-1 infection affecting their neurological health.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to HSV-1 infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and interventions for patients suffering from neurological issues following HSV-1 infection.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral impacts on neural cells, but this specific investigation into HSV-1 and NPCs is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: D'AIUTO, LEONARDO — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: D'AIUTO, LEONARDO
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.