Understanding the Powassan virus and its impact in the Northeast and Midwest US
Powassan virus evolution, fitness, and pathogenesis in the Northeast and Midwest United States
This study is looking into the Powassan virus, which is spread by ticks and can be especially risky for kids, to understand how the virus and the ticks that carry it are changing in certain areas of the Northeast and Midwest, with the hope of finding ways to help prevent and treat infections.
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-10978403 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the Powassan virus, a tick-borne virus that poses a growing public health threat, particularly in children. The study aims to explore the genetic diversity of the virus and its tick vectors in specific regions of the Northeast and Midwest United States. By analyzing how these populations interact and evolve, the research seeks to identify patterns that could inform prevention and treatment strategies. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the virus's transmission and potential risks associated with tick bites.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include children and young individuals living in areas where Powassan virus is prevalent, particularly those who have had exposure to tick habitats.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in the Northeast or Midwest regions of the United States or who have no history of tick exposure may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of Powassan virus infections, potentially reducing the incidence of severe neurological outcomes in affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research on tick-borne viruses has shown success in understanding their transmission dynamics, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into Powassan virus as well.
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.