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 is common in Africa, to help find better ways to treat or prevent the illness for those affected.
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-11047958 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, hepatocytes, and neurons, to RVFV infection. By identifying the immune sensors and effectors involved, the research aims to clarify how these responses influence the severity of the disease. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the immune mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments or preventive strategies against RVFV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are exposed to or infected with Rift Valley fever virus.
Not a fit: Patients who are not exposed to Rift Valley fever virus or do not have related symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of Rift Valley fever, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
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.