Understanding how flaviviruses infect cells

Elucidating the Proteolytic Determinants of Flavivirus Infection

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11082988

This study is looking at how certain viruses, like Zika and dengue, get into and multiply inside our cells, with the hope of finding new ways to create treatments that could help patients affected by these diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082988 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which flaviviruses, a group of viruses that can cause diseases like Zika and dengue, enter and replicate within human cells. The study focuses on specific proteins involved in the viral lifecycle, particularly how they interact with cellular components to facilitate infection. By using advanced laboratory techniques, researchers aim to identify the molecular factors that influence the effectiveness of viral replication and how these factors can be targeted for therapeutic development. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new antiviral treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals at risk for flavivirus infections, such as those living in endemic areas or travelers to these regions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for flavivirus infections or those with existing antiviral treatments may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral therapies that effectively combat flavivirus infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral mechanisms and developing antiviral strategies, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.
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.