Understanding how small DNA viruses persist and reactivate in the body
Official title: Exploiting pseudogenetic screens to unravel small DNA virus persistence
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11073515 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses can stay hidden and come back in people with weakened immune systems, like those receiving treatments that lower their immunity, to help find better ways to treat and prevent related illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,889 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI188807-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073515 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are immunocompromised individuals, particularly those undergoing treatments that suppress their immune response.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with robust immune systems or those not affected by polyomavirus infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the persistence and reactivation of polyomaviruses (PyVs) in immunocompromised individuals. By utilizing advanced genetic screening techniques, the study aims to identify factors that control viral reactivation, which is crucial for developing effective treatment options. The researchers will optimize the expression of small hairpin RNA (shRNA) within PyV genomes to explore how these viruses can be manipulated during infection. This work could lead to improved therapies for patients undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, reducing the risk of PyV-associated diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new strategies for preventing and treating diseases caused by polyomaviruses, benefiting patients with weakened immune systems.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral persistence through genetic manipulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sullivan, Christopher S. — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Sullivan, Christopher S.
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.