New hamster models to study chikungunya virus arthritis
Novel Hamster Models of Chikungunya Viral Arthritis
This study is creating new hamster models to help us learn more about chikungunya virus and the long-lasting joint pain it can cause, so we can find better treatments and vaccines for people suffering from this illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11132982 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new hamster models to better understand chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection and its associated chronic arthritis. By using golden Syrian hamsters, the researchers aim to replicate the human disease more accurately than current mouse models, which do not fully capture the chronic symptoms experienced by patients. The study will investigate how the virus persists in the body and causes long-term joint damage, which is crucial for developing effective treatments and vaccines. This work is particularly important as there are currently no antiviral treatments or vaccines available for CHIKV infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been infected with chikungunya virus and are experiencing chronic joint pain.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with chikungunya virus or do not exhibit symptoms of arthritis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from chikungunya virus-induced arthritis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using animal models for viral infections has shown promise, but this specific approach using hamsters for chikungunya virus is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- University of Texas Med Br Galveston — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Tian — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Wang, Tian
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.