Understanding how enterovirus D68 affects the human spinal cord
Investigation of enterovirus D68 pathogenesis in the human spinal cord
This study is looking at how the enterovirus D68 can cause serious nerve problems in kids, like acute flaccid myelitis, by exploring how the virus spreads in the body, and it's being done by a team of experts at the University of Pittsburgh to help us better understand these infections in children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11139792 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) can lead to serious neurological conditions in children, particularly acute flaccid myelitis (AFM). The study utilizes advanced models, including spinal cord organoids, to explore how the virus replicates and spreads in the body, particularly through the intestinal and respiratory tracts. By examining these pathways, the research aims to uncover critical insights into the virus's behavior and its impact on the nervous system. This work is being conducted by a team of experts at the University of Pittsburgh, focusing on improving our understanding of viral infections in pediatric patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who have experienced symptoms related to enterovirus infections or acute flaccid myelitis.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those without a history of enterovirus infections are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for children affected by enterovirus D68 and related neurological conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral pathogenesis in similar contexts, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Freeman, Megan Culler — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Freeman, Megan Culler
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.