Understanding how the immune system responds to West Nile virus
Official title: Innate Immunity to West Nile Virus
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11128663 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system fights off the West Nile virus, which we get from mosquito bites, to help us understand how to better prevent and treat infections.
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 | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $881,545 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179722-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11128663 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been diagnosed with West Nile virus or are at high risk of infection due to mosquito exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to West Nile virus or those with pre-existing conditions that severely compromise their immune system may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the body's innate immune response to West Nile virus (WNV), which is transmitted through mosquito bites. By studying how immune cells recognize and respond to the virus, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that control infection and prevent the virus from spreading to the central nervous system. The approach involves using genetically modified mice to observe the immune response in real-time, focusing on specific receptors that play a crucial role in detecting the virus. The findings could lead to better understanding and treatment of WNV infections and their long-term effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and preventive strategies for West Nile virus infections, potentially reducing long-term health complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding immune responses to viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into WNV.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oberst, Andrew Atwell — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Oberst, Andrew Atwell
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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.