Understanding how RNA structures affect viral infections and immune responses
Official title: Regulation of RNA sensing and viral restriction by RNA structures
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11035164 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus tricks our immune system so it can spread more easily, and it aims to find new ways to help prevent or treat infections for people and horses affected by this virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $428,013 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI155416-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035164 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to or are at risk of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of VEEV infection or do not have related viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), which is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause serious brain infections in humans and horses. The study focuses on how the virus uses its RNA structures to evade the body's immune responses, particularly the innate immune system and interferon responses. By examining the RNA structures in different regions of the virus, the researchers aim to understand how these structures influence the virus's ability to replicate and spread in immune cells. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating infections caused by VEEV and similar viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments or vaccines for viral infections like VEEV, enhancing patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding viral RNA structures can lead to significant advancements in antiviral strategies, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hyde, Jennifer Lynn — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Hyde, Jennifer Lynn
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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.