Understanding how neurons respond differently to HSV-1 infection
Official title: Identifying heterogenous neuronal responses to HSV-1 infection with drop-based microfluidics
Funded at Montana State University - Bozeman · NIH-10766817 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different nerve cells respond to the Herpes Simplex Virus, trying to find out if the virus is active or just hiding out, which could help us discover better ways to treat HSV-1 infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Montana State University - Bozeman NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bozeman, United States) |
| Project start | January 20, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $181,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171724-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10766817 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of HSV-1 infection or those experiencing neurological symptoms related to the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HSV-1 infection or related neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how different types of neurons react to Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection, focusing on whether the infection leads to active replication or remains dormant. Using advanced drop-based microfluidic technology, the researchers aim to observe these responses at a single-cell level, which allows for a more detailed understanding of the factors influencing the infection outcomes. By isolating individual neurons in a controlled environment, the study seeks to uncover critical variables that determine the severity of HSV-1 disease. This knowledge could pave the way for new treatment strategies to manage HSV-1 infections more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from severe HSV-1 infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using microfluidics for studying viral infections is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other viral research, indicating potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Montana State University - Bozeman
Bozeman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Matthew P. — Montana State University - Bozeman
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Matthew P.
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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.