Understanding how incomplete maturation in flaviviruses affects their ability to infect and be neutralized by antibodies
Partial maturation in mosquito-borne flaviviruses: developing new approaches to characterize the role of lattice heterogeneity in fusion, infectivity, and antibody neutralization
This study looks at how certain viruses carried by mosquitoes, like Dengue, affect our cells when they infect us, focusing on the differences in the virus's proteins, which could help us find better treatments and vaccines for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11000314 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how mosquito-borne flaviviruses, like Dengue, interact with host cells during infection. It focuses on the structural differences in the virus's protein arrangement, particularly when they are not fully matured. By examining these variations, the research aims to understand how they influence the virus's ability to infect cells and evade the immune response. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved antiviral therapies and vaccines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals at risk of flavivirus infections, such as those living in endemic areas.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for mosquito-borne flavivirus infections may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments and vaccines against flavivirus infections.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding viral structures and their implications for treatment, making this approach promising but still exploring novel aspects.
Where this research is happening
West Lafayette, United States
- Purdue University — West Lafayette, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Metskas, Lauren Ann — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Metskas, Lauren Ann
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.