Understanding how metabolism affects the body's response to HCMV infection
Official title: Metabolism and HCMV: determinants of the antiviral state
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11021048 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune signals in the body can help fight off the Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection and how a specific virus protein might get in the way of that response, with the goal of finding better treatments for people, especially those with weakened immune systems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $594,525 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI181865-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021048 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with HCMV infections, particularly those who are immunocompromised or have congenital infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HCMV or do not have conditions related to HCMV may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the body's immune response to Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection is influenced by metabolic changes induced by anti-viral cytokines. It aims to uncover the mechanisms through which these cytokines promote an anti-viral state in neighboring cells, focusing on the role of the HCMV UL26 protein, which hinders this immune response. By exploring these interactions, the research seeks to identify potential targets for therapies that could enhance the body's ability to fight HCMV, particularly in vulnerable populations such as those with weakened immune systems or congenital conditions. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for HCMV-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to enhance the immune response against HCMV, potentially reducing the incidence of related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding the immune response to viral infections through metabolic pathways, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munger, Joshua C — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Munger, Joshua C
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.