Understanding how influenza viruses transmit between animals and humans
Official title: Investigation of host glycan requirements for the transmission of influenza viruses at the human-animal interface
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10826886 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain sugars on the surface of our cells might help the flu virus jump from animals to people, and by changing these sugars in lab-grown lung cells, researchers hope to learn more about how the virus spreads so we can find better ways to stop future flu outbreaks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | July 26, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $792,687 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI174584-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10826886 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at higher risk of influenza infection, particularly those with close contact to animals or in regions where zoonotic transmission is common.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for influenza or who have no exposure to animals may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific sugars on cell surfaces, known as sialoglycans, in the transmission of influenza viruses from animals to humans. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, researchers will modify these sugars in human lung cells to see how they affect the ability of various influenza strains to infect these cells. The goal is to identify which sugar structures are crucial for the virus's ability to spread, thereby improving our understanding of how zoonotic influenza infections occur. This knowledge could lead to better strategies for predicting and preventing future influenza outbreaks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting and preventing influenza pandemics, ultimately protecting public health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral transmission through similar methodologies, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manicassamy, Balaji — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Manicassamy, Balaji
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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.