Understanding how different strains of the flu virus exchange genetic material

The basis of Influenza A virus strain-dependent reassortment potential

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11035243

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035243 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been infected with or are at risk of influenza A virus strains.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by influenza A viruses or those who have other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for predicting and preventing flu pandemics.

How similar studies have performed: 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

Davis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions co-infectioncoinfectionDisease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.