Understanding how polyomavirus affects the brain and immune response
Deciphering Early Stages of Polyomavirus CNS Pathogenesis and Immunity
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIV HERSHEY MED CTR · NIH-11084524
This study is looking at how the JC virus can lead to serious brain problems, especially in people with weakened immune systems, using mice to better understand how the virus affects the brain and the immune system, with the hope of finding new ways to help those with a condition called PML.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIV HERSHEY MED CTR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HERSHEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11084524 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the early stages of how the JC polyomavirus causes severe brain diseases, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. By using a mouse model, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the virus's impact on the central nervous system and the immune response it triggers. The researchers will explore the pathogenesis of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a serious condition associated with this virus, to identify potential therapeutic targets and improve patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune disorders or those receiving immunomodulatory treatments who are at risk for PML.
Not a fit: Patients with healthy immune systems or those not affected by polyomavirus-related brain diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from brain diseases caused by polyomavirus, particularly those with compromised immune systems.
How similar studies have performed: While research on polyomaviruses is ongoing, this specific approach using a natural virus-host model for studying CNS disease is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
HERSHEY, UNITED STATES
- PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIV HERSHEY MED CTR — HERSHEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LUKACHER, ARON ELIOT — PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIV HERSHEY MED CTR
- Study coordinator: LUKACHER, ARON ELIOT
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 below.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome