Understanding how maternal dengue antibodies affect Zika virus risk during pregnancy

Enhanced susceptibility to Zika virus during pregnancy: a role for maternal dengue antibodies

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10886563

This study is looking at how antibodies from dengue virus in pregnant women might affect their risk of getting sick from the Zika virus, with the goal of understanding how this could impact the health of their babies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886563 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between maternal dengue virus antibodies and the susceptibility to Zika virus infection during pregnancy. It aims to understand how preexisting immunity to dengue may influence the severity of Zika virus disease, particularly in pregnant women. The study will analyze biological samples and data from affected populations to explore the mechanisms of antibody-dependent enhancement, which may lead to increased risks of birth defects. By identifying these factors, the research seeks to provide insights that could inform public health strategies and clinical practices.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include pregnant women who have a history of dengue virus infection or live in areas where both dengue and Zika viruses are prevalent.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have never been exposed to dengue virus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of Zika virus risks in pregnant women, potentially reducing the incidence of birth defects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that preexisting immunity to dengue can affect the outcomes of Zika virus infections, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and critical.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.