Understanding the Herpes Virus's Link to Alzheimer's Disease
Explore roles of HSV-1 in Alzheimer's disease using mouse models
This project aims to understand how the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) might contribute to Alzheimer's disease, a common cause of memory loss in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103142 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Alzheimer's disease causes a progressive loss of memory and thinking skills, affecting millions of older Americans with no cure yet available. This work explores a potential connection between the common herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and the development of Alzheimer's. Researchers are looking into how HSV-1 interacts with brain cells and a specific protein called NAMPT, which normally helps protect against the virus. By understanding these interactions, we hope to uncover new ways the virus might contribute to the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for it could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this foundational understanding.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct participation in human trials will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Success in this work could reveal new targets for therapies or prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease by addressing the role of viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: Recent studies have suggested a link between herpesviruses and Alzheimer's, making this a promising area of continued investigation.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feng, Pinghui — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Feng, Pinghui
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.