Understanding how a virus remains dormant in the body
Manipulation of host factors that promote HCMV latency
This study is looking at how the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) stays quiet in the body and what makes it wake up, which can lead to health problems, and it focuses on a specific protein that helps keep the virus inactive, with the goal of finding new ways to help people who might be at risk of HCMV-related issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11030746 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) can remain inactive in the body and what triggers it to reactivate, potentially causing serious health issues. The study focuses on a specific viral protein, US28, which plays a crucial role in maintaining this dormant state. By examining the interactions between this protein and the host's immune system, researchers aim to uncover new strategies to prevent the virus from causing disease. This could lead to better treatments for individuals at risk of HCMV-related complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with compromised immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or those with certain chronic conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who are immunocompetent and have no history of HCMV infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies that prevent HCMV reactivation and its associated health risks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral latency and reactivation, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connor, Christine M — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: O'connor, Christine M
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.