Mapping how B cells protect against alphavirus infections
Official title: Building an atlas of B cell mediated protective immunity to alphaviruses
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11033426 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called B cells help protect us from alphaviruses, which can cause serious illnesses, and it aims to find ways to boost our immune responses or create better vaccines to fight these viruses.
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 | April 23, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $170,640 |
| NIH project number | 1K08AI187716-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033426 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with a history of alphavirus infections or those at risk of exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of alphavirus infections or are not at risk may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a detailed atlas of how B cells contribute to protective immunity against alphaviruses, which are a group of viruses that can cause serious diseases. By analyzing the immune responses generated by B cells, the research will explore the mechanisms of antibody production and how these antibodies can effectively neutralize the viruses. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to enhance immune responses or develop vaccines targeting these infections. The research will involve advanced techniques in immunology and collaboration with experienced mentors in the field.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines and therapies for alphavirus infections, enhancing patient immunity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in mapping immune responses to other viral infections, suggesting potential for similar breakthroughs in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raju, Saravanan — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Raju, Saravanan
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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.