Understanding how certain immune signals affect alphavirus infections.

Determining the impact of stromal cell-mediated type I IFN signaling on alphavirus pathogenesis

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11115841

This study is looking at how certain immune signals called type I interferons help the body fight off chikungunya virus infections, which can lead to painful arthritis, and it aims to find out how different cells in the body respond to these signals to improve treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11115841 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of type I interferons (IFNs) in the immune response to alphavirus infections, particularly focusing on the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which can cause severe arthritis. The study aims to understand how different types of stromal cells respond to these immune signals during infection. By using mouse models, researchers will explore the beneficial and harmful effects of IFNs and how they influence the disease's progression. This could provide insights into how to better manage or treat infections caused by alphaviruses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced or are at risk for alphavirus infections, particularly those with severe arthritis symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients with non-viral arthritis or those not affected by alphavirus infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from alphavirus infections and related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses can lead to significant advancements in treating viral infections, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alphavirus Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.