Understanding how certain viruses infect humans while others only infect insects
Official title: Identification of the untranslated sequence elements and virus-host interactions that modulate flavivirus host-specificity
Funded at Iowa State University · NIH-11094725 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses, like Zika, can infect humans while others can't, by exploring the virus's genetic makeup and how it interacts with different hosts, which could help us find better ways to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project start | May 24, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $374,469 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI114720-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094725 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas affected by mosquito-borne diseases, particularly those at risk for infections like Zika virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for mosquito-borne diseases or who live in regions where these viruses are not present may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic elements and interactions between flaviviruses and their hosts to understand why some viruses, like Zika, can infect humans while others cannot. By studying the untranslated regions of the virus's genetic material, the researchers aim to identify key factors that determine the virus's ability to infect vertebrates versus insects. The approach includes creating chimeric viruses to observe changes in infection capabilities, providing insights into viral behavior and transmission. This work could lead to better prevention strategies for diseases caused by mosquito-borne viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and controlling diseases caused by flaviviruses in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral host interactions, but this specific investigation into the untranslated regions of flaviviruses is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Iowa State University
Ames, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blitvich, Bradley J — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Blitvich, Bradley J
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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.