Understanding how a virus spreads between cells using metabolic signals
Metabolite-mediated Signaling in Cell-to-Cell Spread of Human Cytomegalovirus
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-11075783
This study is looking at how a virus called human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) spreads between cells and how a substance in our body called kynurenine helps it do that, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent infections, especially for people like organ transplant recipients and pregnant women.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11075783 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) spreads from one cell to another by utilizing specific metabolic signals. The study focuses on a metabolite called kynurenine, which is derived from tryptophan metabolism and acts as a signaling messenger that enhances the virus's ability to spread. By exploring the interactions between the virus and host cell mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new ways to limit HCMV infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as organ transplant recipients and pregnant women. The findings could lead to the development of novel antiviral therapies targeting these metabolic pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are organ transplant recipients, stem cell transplant recipients, or pregnant women at risk of HCMV infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for HCMV infection or those who have already been treated successfully with existing antiviral therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral treatments that effectively limit the spread of HCMV and reduce associated health complications.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting metabolic signaling in HCMV spread is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding viral infections and developing antiviral strategies.
Where this research is happening
TUCSON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA — TUCSON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PURDY, JOHN GERARD — UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
- Study coordinator: PURDY, JOHN GERARD
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.