Investigating how immunity to dengue virus affects Zika virus infections in primates

Dengue-Zika: Correlates of Cross-Protection in Non-Human Primates

NIH-funded research University of Puerto Rico Med Sciences · NIH-10757891

This study is looking at how having immunity to dengue might affect how sick you get from Zika, using monkeys to help understand the immune responses, which could lead to better vaccines for both viruses.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Puerto Rico Med Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Juan, United States)
Project IDNIH-10757891 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the interactions between dengue and Zika viruses, particularly how prior immunity to one virus may influence the severity of infection from the other. Using non-human primates that closely mimic the human immune system, the study aims to identify immune responses that could provide protection against severe disease. The researchers will analyze how immune responses to dengue may enhance or mitigate Zika infections, focusing on the cellular immune response. This work is crucial for understanding the implications of these viruses in endemic regions and could inform future vaccine development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with a history of dengue virus infection, particularly those living in endemic regions.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to either dengue or Zika viruses may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing severe infections from dengue and Zika viruses.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that immune responses to related viruses can influence disease severity, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

San Juan, 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.