Understanding how retroviruses affect domestic dogs
Official title: Impact of endogenous retroviruses in the domestic dog
Funded at Bowling Green State University · NIH-10875806 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viral elements in dogs' genes might affect their health, especially in relation to cancers and other illnesses, to help us understand how these factors could influence their well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Bowling Green State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bowling Green, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $426,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM154237-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875806 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are domestic dogs, particularly those with or at risk for cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Dogs that are healthy and not genetically predisposed to cancer or other related diseases may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) in domestic dogs, focusing on how these viral elements integrate into the dog's genome and potentially influence health and disease. By studying the genetic material passed down through generations, the research aims to uncover the impact of ERVs on canine cancers and other disorders. The approach includes analyzing the expression of ERV-related genes and their association with tumor development, using advanced genetic and biological assays. This work is crucial for understanding how these viral components may contribute to disease processes in dogs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for cancers and other diseases in domestic dogs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that studying endogenous retroviruses in other species has provided insights into their roles in disease, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Halo, Julia Vera — Bowling Green State University
- Study coordinator: Halo, Julia Vera
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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.