Understanding how Zika virus affects the eye's protective barrier
Official title: MECHANISMS REGULATING BREACH OF BLOOD RETINAL BARRIER UPON ZIKA VIRUS INFECTION
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-10947529 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the Zika virus can harm the eyes of newborns by breaking down a protective barrier, and it aims to find ways to fix this barrier to help prevent eye problems caused by the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $121,090 |
| NIH project number | 1K99EY036452-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947529 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are newborns who have been diagnosed with Zika virus infection or are at risk of ocular anomalies due to the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than newborns or those without a history of Zika virus exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the Zika virus disrupts the blood-retinal barrier, potentially leading to serious eye problems in newborns. The study focuses on specific signaling pathways that may be compromised during infection, which could allow the virus to enter the eye and cause damage. By exploring these pathways, the research aims to identify therapeutic strategies that could restore the integrity of the blood-retinal barrier and prevent ocular complications associated with Zika virus infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect the eyes of infants affected by Zika virus infection.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral impacts on barrier integrity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Sneha — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Singh, Sneha
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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.