Understanding how genetics and sex affect flu severity
Genetic Contributors to the Impact of Sex on Heterogeneity in Flu Infection
This project looks at how differences in our genes and whether we are male or female can make flu infections more or less severe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11129708 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that flu infections can range from very mild to life-threatening, and that men and women often experience flu differently. This project aims to uncover why these differences exist by studying how our genetic makeup, combined with our sex, influences how our bodies react to the influenza virus. Researchers will use advanced techniques to examine gene activity in human cells, in volunteers who are exposed to the flu virus, and in larger groups of people to find specific genetic variations and sex-specific gene responses that impact flu outcomes. The goal is to understand the underlying biological reasons for these varying responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients for treatment, but future studies building on this work might seek individuals with specific genetic profiles or those who have experienced varying flu severities.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for current flu infections would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to predict who is at higher risk for severe flu and help develop more personalized treatments or prevention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of genetic and sex-based factors in flu severity is a complex area, previous research has shown that both genetics and sex play roles in infectious disease outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ko, Dennis Chun-Yone — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Ko, Dennis Chun-Yone
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.