Understanding how a viral protein affects herpes simplex virus infections
Official title: Role of ICP0 Dimerization in Herpes Simplex Virus Pathogenesis
Funded at University of Kansas Lawrence · NIH-11126079 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein from the herpes simplex virus that might help the virus hide in nerve cells and cause flare-ups later, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how this virus works so we can find better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Lawrence NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lawrence, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $229,624 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI181336-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126079 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who experience recurrent herpes simplex virus infections or are at risk of developing complications from these infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have herpes simplex virus infections or those with other unrelated medical conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific viral protein, ICP0, in the herpes simplex virus (HSV) lifecycle, particularly its ability to cause latent infections in sensory neurons. By studying how ICP0 dimerizes, or pairs up, the researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that lead to viral reactivation and associated cellular damage. The approach involves using animal models to observe the effects of ICP0 on viral replication and pathogenesis. Insights gained from this research could pave the way for new treatments targeting HSV infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel therapies that prevent or reduce the severity of HSV-related diseases, including blindness and encephalitis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting viral proteins can lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating viral infections, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Lawrence
Lawrence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davido, David J — University of Kansas Lawrence
- Study coordinator: Davido, David J
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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.