Understanding how a virus can resist the immune system during long-term infections
Complement Resistance Acquired During Acute to Persistent Rubulavirus Infection
This study is looking at how a virus called Parainfluenza can change from causing a short-term illness to a long-lasting infection in lung cells, and it aims to understand how the body's immune system can help control this process, which could lead to new treatments for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Central Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orlando, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10767348 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Rubulavirus, specifically Parainfluenza virus 5 (PIV5), transitions from an acute to a persistent infection in human lung cells. It focuses on the role of the complement system, a part of the innate immune response, in controlling these infections. The researchers will analyze how infected cells initially vulnerable to immune attack become resistant over time by expressing high levels of complement inhibitors. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic or persistent viral respiratory infections.
Not a fit: Patients with acute viral infections that resolve quickly may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating persistent viral respiratory infections, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of complement resistance in persistent infections are not well-studied, related research has shown promise in understanding viral evasion strategies.
Where this research is happening
Orlando, United States
- University of Central Florida — Orlando, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parks, Griffith D. — University of Central Florida
- Study coordinator: Parks, Griffith D.
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.