Understanding how a specific protein affects herpes simplex virus infections
Modulation of Herpes Simplex Virus Pathogenesis by Leucine Rich Repeat Kinase 2
This study is looking at how a protein called LRRK2 affects the immune system's response to the herpes simplex virus, which can cause serious health problems, and it aims to find new ways to improve treatments for those issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11063169 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) in the immune response to herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which is a common virus that can lead to severe health issues like viral encephalitis and blindness. The study focuses on how LRRK2 regulates inflammasomes, which are crucial for controlling HSV-1 infections. By examining the effects of specific genetic variations in LRRK2, the research aims to uncover new insights into the immune mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for HSV-1 related complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults who have experienced severe manifestations of HSV-1, such as viral encephalitis or infectious blindness.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HSV-1 infections or those with mild symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients suffering from severe HSV-1 infections and related complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting immune responses can effectively manage viral infections, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karaba, Andrew Hoover — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Karaba, Andrew Hoover
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.