Understanding how chikungunya virus attaches to cells and causes disease
Official title: Molecular mechanisms governing chikungunya virus binding, tropism, and pathogenesis
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11129670 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the chikungunya virus attaches to our cells, which is important for understanding how it causes pain and long-lasting joint issues, and the goal is to find better treatments or vaccines for people suffering from this virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | July 3, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $679,987 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173044-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11129670 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with chikungunya virus infection and are experiencing chronic joint pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with chikungunya virus or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which leads to painful joint inflammation that can last for years. The study focuses on how the virus binds to specific structures on cell surfaces, which is crucial for its ability to infect and cause disease. By using various scientific techniques, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind the virus's attachment to cells and how this affects the severity of the disease. The findings could help in developing effective treatments or vaccines for those affected by CHIKV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies or vaccines for chikungunya virus, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral mechanisms similar to those of chikungunya, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Silva, Laurie a. — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Silva, Laurie a.
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.