Understanding the Body's Response to Acute and Chronic Viral Infections
Official title: A Multifaceted Approach to Study Tissue and Cell Type Specific Molecular Mechanisms of the Host Response to Acute/Chronic Viral Infection
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11142627 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project explores how different cells and organs in our body fight off acute and long-lasting viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2017 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $383,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM124915-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142627 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with chronic viral infections, or those at risk of developing them, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this fundamental understanding.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose conditions are not related to viral infections or the body's immune response to them may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
What this research studies
Our bodies have a natural defense system that tries to stop viruses right away. Sometimes, this defense isn't enough, leading to chronic infections and ongoing inflammation that can cause illness. This work looks at how specific cells, like those lining our organs, react to viruses and produce special proteins called interferons. We want to learn why different cells and organs respond differently to viruses, especially focusing on the liver's unique role in fighting infection. Understanding these basic processes is key to developing better ways to manage viral diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to new ways to treat or prevent chronic viral infections by boosting the body's natural defenses and reducing harmful inflammation.
How similar studies have gone: While the general concept of antiviral responses is known, this project aims to uncover previously unknown mechanisms of cell and organ-specific interferon expression, suggesting a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomas, Emmanuel — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Thomas, Emmanuel
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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.