Understanding how the immune system responds to Rift Valley fever virus
Innate immune recognition and response to Rift Valley fever virus
This study is looking at how our body's natural defenses recognize and fight the Rift Valley fever virus, which can cause serious illness, to help find better ways to treat people who get infected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10890001 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the innate immune system in humans recognizes and responds to the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), which is prevalent in Africa. The study focuses on understanding the immune responses of different cell types, including mononuclear phagocytic cells and hepatocytes, to RVFV infection. By identifying the immune sensors and effectors involved, the research aims to uncover how these responses can influence the severity of the disease, which can manifest as acute febrile illness, hepatitis, or encephalitis. The findings could lead to improved antiviral strategies and treatments for those affected by RVFV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been exposed to or are at risk of Rift Valley fever virus infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of exposure to Rift Valley fever virus or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatments and preventive measures for patients infected with Rift Valley fever virus.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of RVFV immune response are not extensively studied, similar research on other viral infections has shown promising results in understanding immune responses and developing treatments.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcelroy, Anita K — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Mcelroy, Anita K
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 below.