Understanding how bunyaviruses evolve and reassort
Official title: Molecular and Fitness Barriers to Bunyavirus Reassortment
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10904776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses, called bunyaviruses, change and mix their genes, which can help them infect different animals and people, and it aims to find out what stops these viruses from successfully swapping their genetic material so we can better predict and prevent new viral outbreaks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $420,193 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI177711-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals at risk of bunyavirus infections, such as those living in areas with high mosquito populations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of bunyavirus infections or those with no exposure to mosquito vectors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the evolution of bunyaviruses, which are significant pathogens affecting humans and animals. It focuses on how these viruses can reassort, or exchange genetic material, which may lead to new strains capable of infecting different hosts. By using innovative techniques to analyze the compatibility of viral proteins and RNAs, the research aims to identify the molecular barriers that prevent successful reassortment. This understanding could help predict and mitigate the emergence of new viral threats.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing and controlling bunyavirus infections in humans and animals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral reassortment mechanisms, but this specific approach using minigenome libraries is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stenglein, Mark D. — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Stenglein, Mark D.
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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.