Understanding how parainfluenza virus replicates its genome
Official title: Mechanism of parainfluenza virus genome replication
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11168265 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the parainfluenza virus makes copies of itself, which can help us find better treatments for respiratory infections caused by this virus and others like it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $734,184 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI191462-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11168265 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals at risk for parainfluenza virus infections, such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by parainfluenza virus infections or who do not have underlying health conditions that increase their risk may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the replication of the parainfluenza virus, which is known to cause respiratory infections. The team will focus on the viral polymerase complex, which is crucial for the virus's ability to replicate and produce its genetic material. By studying the structure and function of this complex, the researchers aim to uncover new insights that could lead to the development of effective antiviral therapies. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to improved treatments for viral infections caused by parainfluenza and similar viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antiviral therapies that effectively combat parainfluenza virus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in targeting viral polymerase complexes for antiviral development, indicating that this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fearns, Rachel — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Fearns, Rachel
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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.