Understanding how astrovirus VA1 affects brain cells using a lab model
Official title: Characterization of a cerebral organoid model of astrovirus VA1 infection
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10896135 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a virus called astrovirus VA1 affects brain cells, especially the supportive cells known as astrocytes, to understand how it might cause inflammation and harm to nerve cells, using tiny lab-grown models of the human brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI168955-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896135 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced neurological symptoms or infections related to astrovirus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral neurological conditions or those not affected by astrovirus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the astrovirus VA1, an emerging cause of brain infections, interacts with brain cells, particularly astrocytes. By using human cerebral organoids, which are lab-grown models of the human brain, the researchers aim to observe how VA1 infection leads to inflammation and neuronal cell death. The study focuses on the mechanisms by which astrocytes may contribute to neuronal injury through the release of inflammatory signals. This approach allows for a more accurate representation of human brain responses to the virus compared to traditional cell cultures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for brain infections caused by astroviruses.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using organoid models to study viral infections, suggesting this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Janowski, Andrew Bok Seng — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Janowski, Andrew Bok Seng
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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.