Understanding how viruses affect brain cell growth
Official title: Investigating Mechanisms of Viral Impairment of Neurogenesis Using Recombinant AAV
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11047746 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how some viral infections, like HIV, can affect the growth of new brain cells, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these viruses might lead to new ways to treat brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $467,481 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126680-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047746 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been affected by viral infections, particularly those related to HIV.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by viral infections or do not have related neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain viral infections can impair the growth of new brain cells, particularly focusing on the effects of the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus (HIV) and other viruses on neurogenesis. The study uses a model involving recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) to explore the mechanisms by which these viruses eliminate neural progenitor cells in both developing and adult brains. By understanding these processes, the research aims to uncover potential pathways that could lead to new treatments for brain diseases linked to viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of viral infections on brain health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding viral mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in treating related neurological conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shtrahman, Matthew — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Shtrahman, Matthew
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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.