Understanding how Zika virus is shed in semen
Official title: Determinants of acute and persistent Zika virus shedding in semen
Funded at Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-11099903 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Zika virus spreads through semen, using mice to find out which parts of the virus and types of cells are involved, so we can better understand how it affects pregnant women and their babies and help prevent its spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $230,404 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI183178-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099903 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include men who have been infected with the Zika virus and are experiencing symptoms or have recently recovered.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with the Zika virus or those who are not male may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Zika virus is transmitted through semen, focusing on the factors that influence both acute and persistent shedding of the virus. By using a mouse model, the study aims to identify the specific viral components and types of cells involved in this process. The research will explore the role of immune cells in the shedding of the virus, which is crucial for understanding sexual transmission and its implications for maternal and infant health. The findings could help inform strategies to prevent Zika virus transmission during pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for Zika virus transmission, particularly in pregnant women.
How similar studies have gone: While research on Zika virus transmission is ongoing, this specific investigation into the mechanisms of viral shedding in semen is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
Blacksburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duggal, Nisha — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Duggal, Nisha
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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.