Understanding how the Hepatitis Delta Virus replicates
Official title: Dynamics of HDV RNA Synthesis
Funded at Georgetown University · NIH-10875592 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) makes copies of itself in the body, which can help us understand how it causes liver disease and could lead to better treatments for people affected by it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI175717-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875592 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Hepatitis Delta Virus infection, particularly those experiencing severe liver disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of hepatitis or liver disease not related to HDV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique replication cycle of the Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV), which causes severe liver disease. By studying how the virus synthesizes its RNA using the host's RNA polymerase II, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind viral RNA production and its impact on disease progression. The team employs advanced tracking tools to monitor the RNA synthesis process, which could lead to insights into how the virus spreads and persists in the body. This understanding may pave the way for developing effective therapies against HDV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective treatments for Hepatitis Delta Virus infections.
How similar studies have gone: While research on HDV is ongoing, this specific approach to understanding its RNA synthesis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgetown University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Casey, John L — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: Casey, John L
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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.