Understanding how type 1 interferons affect eye infections caused by HSV-1

Role of type 1 IFN in eye infection

NIH-funded research Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-11030287

This study is looking at how a part of our immune system, called type 1 interferons, helps fight off the HSV-1 virus, which can cause serious eye problems, and aims to find ways to improve treatments or vaccines for people dealing with this virus.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11030287 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of type 1 interferons (IFNs) in the immune response to HSV-1, a virus that can cause serious eye diseases. The study aims to understand how HSV-1 evades the immune system and establishes latency in neurons, which can lead to recurrent infections. By using recombinant viruses in mouse models, researchers will explore how different cytokines influence the immune response and the persistence of the virus. This work could provide insights into developing effective vaccines or treatments for HSV-1 infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of HSV-1 infections or those at risk for developing HSV-1 related eye diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HSV-1 infections or are not at risk for related complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments or vaccines for HSV-1 infections, reducing the incidence of eye disease and genital herpes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the immune response to viral infections can lead to breakthroughs in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.