Understanding how the Rift Valley fever virus packages its genetic material
Official title: Modulation of viral genome packaging in Rift Valley fever virus
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11131194 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Rift Valley fever virus, which can be spread by mosquitoes and is a threat to both people and animals, puts its genetic material into new virus particles, with the goal of finding ways to create vaccines or treatments to help prevent outbreaks in the U.S.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | July 3, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $200,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI185231-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11131194 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals living in or traveling to areas where RVFV is prevalent, particularly in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of exposure to Rift Valley fever, such as those living in regions where the virus is not present, may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), which is transmitted by mosquitoes and poses significant health risks to humans and livestock. The study focuses on the mechanisms by which the virus packages its RNA genome into viral particles, a crucial step in its life cycle. By exploring the interactions between viral proteins and RNA, the research aims to identify potential targets for developing vaccines or treatments. This work is particularly important given the potential for RVFV outbreaks in the U.S. and the current lack of effective vaccines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines or treatments for Rift Valley fever, improving public health and agricultural stability.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on viral genome packaging in other viruses has shown promise, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Makino, Shinji — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Makino, Shinji
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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.