Understanding how hepatitis E virus affects the nervous system
A gerbil model to delineate the mechanism of hepatitis E virus extrahepatic pathogenesis
['FUNDING_R37'] · VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV · NIH-10983738
This study is looking at how the hepatitis E virus can cause problems in the brain, not just the liver, by using gerbils to see how the virus affects brain cells and causes inflammation, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who have HEV-related issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10983738 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes neurological issues beyond liver disease. Using a gerbil model, the study aims to explore how HEV infects cells in the brain and triggers inflammatory responses that may lead to neurological damage. The researchers will examine the role of specific immune responses and cellular processes involved in this extrahepatic pathogenesis. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for patients affected by HEV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with hepatitis E and are experiencing neurological symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have hepatitis E or those without neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neurological complications associated with hepatitis E virus infections.
How similar studies have performed: While hepatitis E is a well-known virus, the specific investigation into its neurological effects using this gerbil model is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied before.
Where this research is happening
BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES
- VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV — BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MENG, XIANG-JIN — VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV
- Study coordinator: MENG, XIANG-JIN
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.