Understanding how chikungunya virus causes long-term joint pain
Defining mechanisms of chronic CHIKV disease in joint associated tissue
This study is looking into how the chikungunya virus can cause long-lasting joint pain in some people, and it aims to find out how the virus stays in the body and causes inflammation, which could help create better treatments for those suffering from chronic arthritis.
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-11065300 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind chronic arthritis caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which can lead to severe and lasting joint pain in some patients. The study focuses on understanding how the virus persists in the body and triggers inflammation in joint tissues, particularly through the role of immune cells like macrophages and T cells. By using advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing, the researchers aim to identify specific pathways that contribute to chronic inflammation and pain. This knowledge could pave the way for developing targeted therapies to alleviate symptoms for affected patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced chikungunya virus infection and are suffering from ongoing joint pain or arthritis.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with the chikungunya virus or do not experience joint-related symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from chronic joint pain due to chikungunya virus.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of chronic CHIKV disease are still being explored, similar research on viral-induced arthritis has shown promising results in understanding inflammation and developing treatments.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zarrella, Kristen — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Zarrella, Kristen
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.