Understanding how different strains of the flu virus exchange genetic material
Official title: The basis of Influenza A virus strain-dependent reassortment potential
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11035243 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different flu viruses can mix their genes when they infect the same cell, which helps scientists understand how new flu strains can appear, and it’s aimed at helping everyone stay healthier during flu season.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | February 14, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $442,004 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179873-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035243 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been infected with or are at risk of influenza A virus strains.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by influenza A viruses or those who have other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how influenza A viruses can swap genetic segments when they infect the same cell, a process known as reassortment. By examining various human flu strains, the researchers aim to identify the specific factors that influence this strain-dependent reassortment. They will utilize advanced experimental techniques to measure reassortment patterns and test the effects of different viral components on this process. The ultimate goal is to better understand how new flu viruses emerge, which could help in predicting and controlling flu outbreaks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for predicting and preventing flu pandemics.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding viral reassortment can lead to significant advancements in flu prevention and treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Diaz, Samuel L — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Diaz, Samuel L
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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.