Understanding Powassan Virus in the Northeast and Midwest
Powassan virus evolution, fitness, and pathogenesis in the Northeast and Midwest United States
This work helps us learn more about the Powassan virus, a tick-borne illness that can affect people in the Northeast and Midwest United States.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11127730 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are looking closely at the Powassan virus, which is spread by ticks and can cause serious illness, especially brain inflammation. They want to understand how the virus is changing and spreading in different areas like Minnesota and New York. By studying the virus and the ticks that carry it, we hope to learn why cases are increasing and how to better protect people. This knowledge is important for developing ways to prevent and treat this emerging health concern.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients, but it aims to benefit individuals living in or traveling to areas where Powassan virus is present, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest U.S.
Not a fit: Patients not living in or exposed to areas with Powassan virus may not directly benefit from this specific geographic and viral strain focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of how Powassan virus spreads and evolves, which is crucial for developing future prevention strategies and treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Powassan virus has been understudied, making this research novel and essential for building foundational knowledge about this emerging public health threat.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aliota, Matthew T — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Aliota, Matthew T
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.