Understanding how the Schlafen protein helps fight flavivirus infections
Official title: In vivo relevance of the Schlafen-mediated innate immune mechanism in flavivirus infection
Funded at University of Texas El Paso · NIH-11082296 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called Schlafen to see how it helps our immune system fight off viruses like dengue and Zika, with the hope that what they learn can lead to better ways to prevent and treat these infections for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas El Paso NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (El Paso, United States) |
| Project start | May 22, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $154,712 |
| NIH project number | 5R16AI167830-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082296 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who may be at risk for flavivirus infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for flavivirus infections or those who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Schlafen protein in the body's immune response to flavivirus infections, such as dengue and Zika. By studying how this protein functions at a molecular level, the researchers aim to identify potential biomarkers that could predict disease outcomes and therapeutic targets for treatment. The study will involve both laboratory experiments and in vivo assessments to understand the effectiveness of the Schlafen protein in combating these viruses. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for flavivirus infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for treating flavivirus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to viral infections, but the specific role of Schlafen proteins in flavivirus infections is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas El Paso
El Paso, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Llano, Manuel — University of Texas El Paso
- Study coordinator: Llano, Manuel
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.