Understanding how type 1 interferons affect eye infections caused by HSV-1
Official title: Role of type 1 IFN in eye infection
Funded at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-11030287 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $470,543 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033574-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030287 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
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.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HSV-1 infections or are not at risk for related complications may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghiasi, Homayon — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ghiasi, Homayon
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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.