Understanding how bat-borne viruses spread to animals and humans in Bangladesh
Official title: Solving Opportunities for Spillover (SOS): Frequency and Mechanisms of Cross-species Transmission of Henipaviruses in Bangladesh
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11004377 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how viruses from bats can spread to pets and people in Bangladesh, helping us understand how to keep everyone safe from these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 3, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $630,197 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI168287-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004377 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals living in close proximity to domesticated animals in Bangladesh, particularly children under 11 years old.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who live in regions without exposure to bats or domesticated animals may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the transmission of henipaviruses, which are viruses carried by bats, to domesticated animals and humans in Bangladesh. By studying the interactions between bats and animals, as well as environmental factors, the research aims to identify the pathways through which these viruses spill over into human populations. The study employs a combination of epidemiological, ecological, and anthropological methods, including serological assays and statistical modeling, to better understand the risk factors associated with these viral transmissions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing future pandemics caused by henipaviruses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral spillover mechanisms in other contexts, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gurley, Emily Suzanne — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Gurley, Emily Suzanne
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.