Investigating how RNA changes in Powassan virus affect its behavior and spread
Official title: The role of RNA deletion and duplication events in Powassan virus pathogenesis and evolution
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10795083 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the RNA of the Powassan virus, which is carried by ticks, affect how the virus makes people sick and avoids the immune system, helping us learn more about tick-borne illnesses and their effects on health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | February 24, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $193,150 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176458-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795083 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Powassan virus infection or are at high risk of exposure to infected ticks.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by tick-borne viruses or do not reside in areas where Powassan virus is prevalent may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how deletions and duplications in the RNA of the Powassan virus influence its ability to cause disease and evade the immune system. By analyzing RNA samples collected from ticks that carry the virus, researchers aim to map specific genetic changes and their implications for the virus's lifecycle. The study employs advanced laboratory techniques to detect these RNA alterations, which could provide insights into how the virus evolves and spreads. Ultimately, this research seeks to enhance our understanding of tick-borne viral infections and their impact on human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating Powassan virus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on other RNA viruses has shown that understanding genetic recombination can lead to significant advancements in treatment and prevention strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piantadosi, Anne L — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Piantadosi, Anne L
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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.