Understanding how human cytomegalovirus remains dormant in blood cells
Official title: Mechanisms of Human Cytomegalovirus Latency in Primary Human Hematopoietic Cells
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10798362 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) hides in certain blood-forming cells and how it can wake up again, with the goal of finding ways to stop it from causing health problems, especially for people with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $443,151 |
| NIH project number | 4R37AI079059-17 |
| Project ID | NIH-10798362 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of HCMV infection, particularly those with compromised immune systems or hematological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never been infected with HCMV or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) establishes and maintains latency in hematopoietic progenitor cells, which are crucial for blood cell formation. The study focuses on the molecular pathways involved in the virus's ability to enter and exit a dormant state, particularly how certain viral proteins interact with host cellular processes. By examining these interactions, the research aims to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention that could prevent reactivation of the virus, which is linked to various health complications. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how HCMV latency affects their health, especially those with weakened immune systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing HCMV reactivation, improving health outcomes for patients at risk of complications from this virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral latency mechanisms in other viruses, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in this area with HCMV.
Where this research is happening
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University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goodrum, Felicia D — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Goodrum, Felicia D
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.