Understanding how certain viruses interact with the immune system
Defining viral-host interactions between arthritogenic alphaviruses and MARCO
This study is looking at how certain viruses spread by mosquitoes affect the immune system and how long they stay in the blood, which could help us find better ways to treat infections that cause arthritis-like symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003705 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how arthritogenic alphaviruses, which are transmitted by mosquitoes, interact with the immune system, specifically focusing on a receptor called MARCO. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that determine how long these viruses remain in the bloodstream of infected individuals. By analyzing the viral proteins and their interactions with MARCO, researchers hope to identify factors that influence viral clearance. This could lead to better understanding and management of viral infections that cause arthritis-like symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been infected with arthritogenic alphaviruses or are at risk of such infections due to mosquito exposure.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of arthritogenic alphavirus infections or are not exposed to mosquitoes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for viral infections that result in arthritis, potentially reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding viral-host interactions, but this specific focus on MARCO and arthritogenic alphaviruses is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Frances Shieh — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Li, Frances Shieh
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 below.