Investigating how viruses invade the brain and affect the immune response
Viral and host factors in neuroinvasion of encephalitis alphaviruses
This study is looking at how certain viruses can get into the brain and spread, and it aims to find out how these viruses manage to avoid the body's defenses, which could help us find better ways to prevent or treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Western Ontario NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (London, Canada) |
| Project ID | NIH-11029942 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain viruses, specifically encephalitic alphaviruses, enter and spread within the central nervous system (CNS). By examining the interactions between these viruses and the host's immune cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow these viruses to bypass the blood-brain barrier and cause infection. The research involves analyzing immune responses and the role of various brain cells in the infection process, which could lead to new insights into preventing or treating these viral infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to or infected by encephalitic alphaviruses, particularly those showing symptoms of CNS involvement.
Not a fit: Patients with non-viral causes of encephalitis or those not affected by alphavirus infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating viral infections that affect the brain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral mechanisms of CNS invasion, but this specific focus on alphaviruses is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
London, Canada
- University of Western Ontario — London, Canada (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Klein, Robyn S. — University of Western Ontario
- Study coordinator: Klein, Robyn S.
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 below.