Understanding how placental cells protect against HCMV infection
Official title: Defining cell-intrinsic trophoblast defenses to HCMV infection
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11080189 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special cells in the placenta can protect themselves from a virus called human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), which can be harmful to developing babies, and it aims to find ways to help these cells fight off the virus better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $78,040 |
| NIH project number | 5F32AI183633-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080189 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals, particularly those at risk of HCMV infection or with a history of congenital infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who have no risk factors for HCMV infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how trophoblast cells, which are crucial for placental function, defend against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. By using trophoblast organoids, a new model that mimics the human placenta, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow these cells to resist HCMV and how the virus affects their normal functions. The study will explore specific factors within trophoblasts that may inhibit viral replication, providing insights into potential therapeutic strategies to protect developing fetuses from HCMV-related complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to prevent or mitigate the harmful effects of HCMV infection during pregnancy.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using organoid models to study viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hatterschide, Joshua — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Hatterschide, Joshua
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.