Protecting the Brain from Powassan Virus
Innate Immune Regulation of Powassan Virus Neurovirulence
['FUNDING_R21'] · STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK · NIH-11128558
This research looks at how our body's natural defenses work against the Powassan virus, which is a tick-borne illness that can harm the brain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11128558 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Powassan virus is a serious illness spread by ticks in the Northeast US, leading to brain inflammation that can be fatal or cause lasting neurological problems. Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments available for this virus. This project aims to understand how our body's natural immune system responds to the Powassan virus, particularly how it spreads from a tick bite to the brain and causes damage. By studying how the virus interacts with brain cells and triggers inflammation, we hope to find new ways to protect against its harmful effects. This work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating this severe infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future studies stemming from this work would focus on individuals at risk of or infected with Powassan virus.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for or currently infected with Powassan virus would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat Powassan virus infections, potentially reducing severe brain damage and saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: The specific role of the body's natural immune system in how Powassan virus invades the brain is not yet fully understood, making this a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES
- STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK — STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MACKOW, ERICH R — STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK
- Study coordinator: MACKOW, ERICH R
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.
Conditions: Acquired brain injury, Airway infections