Understanding how antibodies protect against flavivirus infections
Defining Molecular Epitopes of Protective Antibodies to Flaviviruses
This study is looking at how our immune system responds to viruses like dengue and Zika, focusing on how antibodies can help or sometimes make things worse, and it's for anyone interested in better treatments and vaccines for these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11007195 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the human immune response to flaviviruses, such as dengue and Zika, by investigating how antibodies can either protect against or worsen viral infections. The project aims to enhance knowledge of adaptive immunity and the mechanisms of antibody interactions with viruses. Dr. Alena Markmann, the principal investigator, will utilize advanced methods to analyze immune cells and their responses to these viruses, providing insights that could lead to improved treatments and vaccines. The research includes a combination of rigorous training and practical research to develop effective strategies against these viral infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages who are at risk of flavivirus infections, particularly those living in endemic areas.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for flavivirus infections or those with existing severe immune deficiencies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better vaccines and treatments for flavivirus infections, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding antibody responses to viral infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Markmann, Alena Janda — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Markmann, Alena Janda
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.