Understanding how viruses like chikungunya attach to our cells
Structure-Function Analysis of Mxra8 Interaction with Alphaviruses
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11222209
This project explores how viruses like chikungunya infect human cells, hoping to create new ways to fight these infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11222209 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Alphaviruses, including chikungunya, Mayaro, and Ross River viruses, cause debilitating joint pain in millions of people, yet there are no specific treatments. Our team previously discovered a protein called MXRA8 that these viruses use to enter human cells. We then developed 'decoy' proteins that can block the virus from attaching to MXRA8, which successfully reduced infection and disease in mice. This renewed effort will use advanced imaging to precisely map how the virus interacts with MXRA8, allowing us to design even more effective decoy molecules. We will also conduct further studies in animal models to fully understand MXRA8's role in how these viruses cause illness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients currently suffering from or at risk of alphavirus infections, such as chikungunya, Mayaro, or Ross River virus, could ultimately benefit from the new therapies developed through this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to alphavirus infections would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of the first specific treatments for severe alphavirus infections, potentially reducing acute and chronic joint pain for affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team and others has successfully identified the MXRA8 protein as a key target for these viruses and shown that decoy proteins can reduce infection in mice.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DIAMOND, MICHAEL S — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DIAMOND, MICHAEL S
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 below.
Conditions: Alphavirus Infections