Understanding how Zika virus assembles and interacts with cells
Official title: Defining the molecular interactions required for flavivirus genome packaging and virus assembly
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10904950 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Zika virus puts itself together in placental cells, which is important for figuring out how it spreads and affects health, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about the virus and finding new ways to fight it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $385,292 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI168169-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904950 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals or those who may be at risk of Zika virus infection, particularly in areas where the virus is prevalent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of Zika virus infection or those who have already been infected may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the Zika virus assembles within placental cells, which is crucial for understanding its transmission and effects on human health. The team will use advanced imaging techniques to visualize the virus's interactions with host cells and identify key proteins involved in its assembly. By creating modified versions of the virus, they aim to uncover the cellular processes that facilitate its maturation and release, which could lead to new antiviral strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments or preventive measures against Zika virus and related flavivirus infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding viral assembly mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jose, Joyce — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Jose, Joyce
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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.