Understanding how alphaviruses affect immune responses and joint inflammation
Official title: Alphavirus Pathogenesis and Immunity
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11117406 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses that cause painful joint issues, like Chikungunya and Ross River, trick our immune system, and it's for anyone who suffers from these conditions, as the researchers hope to find better treatments to help relieve your pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 2, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $782,871 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI185051-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117406 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic joint pain or arthritis linked to alphavirus infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with joint pain not associated with alphavirus infections are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response to alphaviruses, specifically Chikungunya and Ross River viruses, which cause severe joint pain and inflammation. By studying mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how these viruses evade the immune system, particularly the role of CD8+ T cells in fighting the infection. The study employs advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze T cell behavior and the interaction with antigen-presenting cells in the context of viral infection. The goal is to identify mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from alphavirus-related arthritis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the immune response against alphavirus infections, potentially reducing joint pain and inflammation for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morrison, Thomas E — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Morrison, Thomas E
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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.