Understanding how a protein affects the herpes virus's ability to hide and reactivate in nerve cells
Official title: The role of ATRX in both promoting the establishment of HSV latency and restricting reactivation
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11089581 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called ATRX helps the Herpes Simplex Virus stay hidden in nerve cells and what makes it wake up again, which could lead to new treatments for people dealing with HSV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $537,223 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135166-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089581 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of herpes simplex virus infections, particularly those experiencing recurrent outbreaks or complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a history of herpes simplex virus infections or those who do not experience symptoms related to HSV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called ATRX in the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) lifecycle, particularly how it helps the virus establish latency in neurons and prevents its reactivation. By studying the interactions between ATRX and the HSV genome, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow the virus to remain dormant and how it can be triggered to reactivate. The study involves examining the cellular environment and stress responses in neurons to understand how these factors influence HSV behavior. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for HSV-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for managing herpes virus infections and potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases associated with HSV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral latency and reactivation mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cliffe, Anna Ruth — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Cliffe, Anna Ruth
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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.