Understanding how viruses influence immunity in the female reproductive system
Official title: Uncovering the role of endogenous retroviruses in shaping antiviral immunity of the female reproductive tract
Funded at U.s. National Inst on Deafness/comm Disr · NIH-10711152 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses and the bacteria in the vagina work together to help protect women's reproductive health and fight off infections, especially for those using antibiotics or medications for HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | U.s. National Inst on Deafness/comm Disr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bethesda, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| NIH project number | 1FI2GM150424-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10711152 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who are concerned about viral infections and those who have used antibiotics or anti-retroviral medications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a female reproductive system or those not affected by viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of endogenous retroviruses and vaginal microbiota in shaping the immune response of the female reproductive tract (FRT). It aims to uncover how these factors interact to control viral infections while maintaining reproductive health. By analyzing immune cell populations and functions in the FRT, the study seeks to understand the mechanisms that influence susceptibility to infections, particularly in women using antibiotics or anti-retroviral medications. The research employs a combination of epidemiological data and laboratory analysis to explore these complex interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing viral infections in women, enhancing reproductive health.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of microbiota in immunity has been studied, the specific focus on endogenous retroviruses in the female reproductive tract is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
U.s. National Inst on Deafness/comm Disr
Bethesda, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Segrist, Elisha — U.s. National Inst on Deafness/comm Disr
- Study coordinator: Segrist, Elisha
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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.