Understanding the human virome across different communities and environments
Official title: VAST Center: Viromes Across Space(s) and Time
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10990421 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for healthy people, especially kids and those from different backgrounds, to help us learn more about the viruses that live in and around us and how our daily lives and surroundings affect them, so we can better understand their impact on our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $4,399,999 |
| NIH project number | 1U54AG089334-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990421 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include healthy children and individuals from underrepresented communities, particularly African Americans and those with unique lifestyle experiences.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pre-existing viral infections or severe health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
The VAST Center aims to identify and characterize the human-associated virome by collecting and analyzing samples from healthy individuals over time. This research focuses on diverse cohorts, including children and underrepresented communities, to explore how lifestyle and environmental factors influence viral populations. By employing advanced techniques such as spatial imaging and microbiome profiling, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the virome's role in health. Participants will contribute to a better understanding of how viruses interact with human biology and the environment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes by enhancing our understanding of viral interactions in diverse populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the human microbiome and virome, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Snyder, Michael P. — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Snyder, Michael P.
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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.