Investigating how Mertk affects brain development in mice infected with Zika virus
Official title: Role of Mertk in pathological neurodevelopment in mice with congenital Zika virus infection
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11054984 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Mertk affects brain development in baby mice whose mothers were infected with the Zika virus during pregnancy, with the goal of finding ways to help prevent brain problems in kids born to mothers who had this infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $234,359 |
| NIH project number | 1K08NS136766-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054984 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants and children who have been diagnosed with congenital Zika virus infection or related neurodevelopmental issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have congenital Zika virus infection or related cognitive and behavioral impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of the Mertk protein on brain development in mice that have been infected with the Zika virus during pregnancy. The study aims to understand how the immune response to the virus may contribute to cognitive and behavioral issues in offspring. By examining the role of Mertk, which is involved in the brain's immune response, the researchers hope to identify potential therapies that can reduce brain injury while effectively controlling the virus. This work is particularly important as it addresses the long-term effects of congenital infections on brain health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that minimize brain damage in infants affected by congenital Zika virus infection.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting Mertk in this context is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding immune responses in congenital infections.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agner, Shannon Christine — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Agner, Shannon Christine
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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.