Understanding how Thogotovirus enters human cells and finding ways to block it
Mechanism and Inhibition of Thogotovirus Entry
This study is looking at how a virus spread by ticks gets into human cells and makes people sick, and it aims to create special antibodies that could help stop the virus from causing infections, which is especially important as tick-borne diseases are becoming more common in the U.S.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10977053 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the Thogotovirus, transmitted by ticks, enters human cells and causes disease. The team will explore the viral proteins involved in this process and develop monoclonal antibodies that can inhibit the virus's ability to infect cells. By using advanced tools and reagents, they aim to characterize these antibodies both structurally and functionally, which could lead to new antiviral therapies. This work is particularly important given the rising incidence of tick-borne diseases in the U.S.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to ticks and are at risk for tick-borne viral infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for tick-borne diseases or those who have already been infected with Thogotovirus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective antiviral treatments for infections caused by Thogotovirus and similar viruses.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully developed antiviral therapies targeting viral entry mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boon, Adrianus Cm — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Boon, Adrianus Cm
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.