Understanding how poxviruses adapt to evade the immune system
Official title: APOBEC3-driven host mechanism promotes poxvirus diversification to overcome host immune restriction
Funded at Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis · NIH-11127241 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special enzyme in our bodies affects the way poxviruses, like monkeypox, change and adapt, which could help us find better ways to treat and prevent these infections in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Little Rock, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $221,105 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI191013-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127241 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who may be at risk for poxvirus infections, such as those in close contact with infected individuals or in areas experiencing outbreaks.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for poxvirus infections or those who have already been vaccinated against these viruses may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the APOBEC3 enzyme in the human body influences the mutation and evolution of poxviruses, such as monkeypox. By analyzing viral genomes, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow these viruses to change and potentially evade the immune response. The study focuses on understanding specific mutations that occur in the viral DNA, which could help predict how these viruses might evolve in the future. This knowledge could be crucial for developing better treatments and preventive measures against poxvirus infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for predicting and controlling poxvirus outbreaks, ultimately enhancing public health responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding viral mutation mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in managing viral infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
Little Rock, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Jia — Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
- Study coordinator: Liu, Jia
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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.