Investigating how varicella zoster virus exosomes affect the body remotely
Official title: Remote cellular reprogramming by non-infectious, pathogenic varicella zoster virus exosomes
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11122195 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny particles released by the virus that causes shingles to see how they might affect inflammation and other health issues in people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 20, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $234,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176110-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11122195 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who have experienced shingles or related complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had shingles or do not have a history of varicella zoster virus infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of exosomes released by varicella zoster virus (VZV) in driving disease processes in the body, particularly in individuals with shingles. By analyzing these exosomes, which are tiny vesicles that carry proteins and genetic material, the study aims to understand how they influence inflammation and other pathological responses in tissues away from the site of infection. The approach involves advanced techniques like mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing to identify the unique components of these exosomes and their potential effects on health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the treatment and management of complications arising from shingles and other VZV-related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using VZV exosomes is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding viral pathogenesis through extracellular vesicles.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bubak, Andrew N — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Bubak, Andrew N
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.