Investigating how the JC virus is transmitted through the intestines
Official title: Using human intestinal organoids to evaluate JCV fecal/oral transmission
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11101343 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the JC virus spreads through the gut and affects people with weakened immune systems, using lab-grown mini intestines to learn more about how the virus infects cells and reaches the kidneys, which could help find ways to prevent serious health problems for those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 3, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $190,625 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180481-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11101343 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who are immunocompromised or have a history of JCV infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are immunocompetent and do not have a history of JCV infection are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the JC virus (JCV), a common virus that can cause serious health issues in immunocompromised individuals, is transmitted via the fecal/oral route. By using human intestinal organoids, the study aims to identify how JCV infects intestinal cells and crosses the intestinal barrier to reach the kidneys. The research will involve laboratory experiments that simulate human intestinal conditions to observe the virus's behavior and infection process. This could provide crucial insights into preventing JCV-related diseases, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies for JCV-related complications, especially in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using intestinal organoids is innovative, previous research has shown that understanding viral transmission through the gastrointestinal tract can lead to significant advancements in infectious disease management.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stanifer, Megan L — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Stanifer, Megan L
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.