Understanding how viruses evolve over time by studying past viral genomes
Official title: Deciphering long-term virus evolution through the reconstruction of past viral genomes
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-10909332 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how dangerous viruses like HIV and SARS-CoV-2 have changed over time by examining old human remains, which could help us learn more about these viruses and improve future treatments and prevention for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $508,951 |
| NIH project number | 5DP2AI177896-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909332 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals affected by or at risk for viral infections, particularly those related to RNA viruses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral related health conditions or those not impacted by RNA viruses may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the evolution of highly pathogenic RNA viruses, such as HIV and SARS-CoV-2, by reconstructing their genomes from historical human remains. By utilizing advanced techniques in ancient DNA analysis and forensic proteomics, the team aims to uncover the viral diversity that existed during significant epidemic outbreaks. This innovative approach will help fill gaps in our understanding of the evolutionary history of these viruses and their impact on human health. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform future treatments and prevention strategies for viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of viral evolution, leading to improved prevention and treatment strategies for current and future viral outbreaks.
How similar studies have gone: Other research in the field of archeovirology has shown promise in uncovering historical viral genomes, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blanco-Melo, Daniel — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Blanco-Melo, Daniel
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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.