Understanding how JC polyomavirus infects cells and causes disease
Official title: Characterization of Viral Receptors and Signaling Networks in JC Polyomavirus Infection
Funded at University of Maine Orono · NIH-10437461 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a virus called JC polyomavirus enters cells and causes a serious brain condition called PML, especially in people with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV or on certain MS treatments, to help find better ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maine Orono NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orono, United States) |
| Project start | March 4, 2019 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $440,410 |
| NIH project number | 2R15AI144686-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10437461 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include immunocompromised individuals, particularly those living with HIV or undergoing immunomodulatory therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with robust immune systems who are not at risk for JCPyV infection or PML may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) interacts with specific receptors on host cells, leading to infection and the development of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The study focuses on immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV or those receiving certain therapies for multiple sclerosis, who are at higher risk for PML. By exploring the mechanisms of JCPyV entry into cells, the research aims to uncover critical insights that could inform future treatment strategies. The approach includes detailed biological assays to characterize virus-receptor interactions and their implications for disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of PML and potentially identify new therapeutic targets for treatment.
How similar studies have gone: While the mechanisms of JCPyV infection are not fully understood, similar research approaches have successfully elucidated virus-host interactions in other viral infections.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maine Orono
Orono, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maginnis, Melissa — University of Maine Orono
- Study coordinator: Maginnis, Melissa
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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.