Understanding the structure of prions that cause chronic wasting disease in deer and elk
Official title: Structural diversity of cervid prions and phenotypic variation of chronic wasting disease
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11047660 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the proteins that cause chronic wasting disease in deer and elk to understand how they spread and if they could pose a risk to humans, helping us find better ways to manage this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $402,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS128226-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047660 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals involved in wildlife management, veterinary medicine, or those at risk of exposure to CWD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in wildlife management or do not have exposure to cervids may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structural properties of prions responsible for chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids, such as deer and elk. By examining how these prions replicate and vary in structure, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind their transmission and potential zoonotic risks to humans. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques to analyze prion proteins and their conformational changes, which could lead to better understanding and management of CWD. This work is crucial for addressing public health concerns related to prion diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and managing chronic wasting disease, potentially reducing its impact on wildlife and public health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on prion diseases has shown promising results in understanding their structure and transmission, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Surewicz, Witold K — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Surewicz, Witold K
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.