Understanding how chikungunya virus and its mosquito carriers evolve together
Official title: Exploring the coevolutionary potential of chikungunya virus and its Aedes mosquito vectors
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11076240 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the mosquitoes that spread the chikungunya virus might change over time to resist the virus, which could help us find new ways to control these mosquitoes and lower the chances of getting chikungunya.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | May 19, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $579,902 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI177352-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076240 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in regions where chikungunya virus is endemic, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in areas affected by chikungunya virus or those who have already been infected may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and its relationship with the Aedes mosquito species that transmit it. By examining how these mosquitoes might evolve resistance to the virus, the study aims to identify genetic factors that could help control the spread of CHIKV. The research employs experimental evolution techniques and advanced genome analysis to uncover potential genetic markers associated with virus resistance. This could lead to better strategies for managing mosquito populations and reducing the incidence of chikungunya infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for controlling chikungunya virus transmission, potentially reducing the incidence of chronic arthritis associated with the infection.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding the evolution of mosquito resistance to viruses, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcgraw, Elizabeth Ann — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Mcgraw, Elizabeth Ann
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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.