Understanding the Viruses Inside and Around Us
Advanced analytics for uncovering virus dynamics and functional potential
This project uses advanced computer tools to learn more about all the different viruses living in and on people, including those that infect our microbes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11195629 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are home to many different viruses, collectively called the human virome, and we are just beginning to understand them. Many of these viruses are identified by sequencing their genetic material directly from samples, but it's hard to make sense of all this information. This project aims to develop new computer methods to better classify these viruses, figure out which hosts they infect, and understand what their genes do. By doing so, we hope to unlock the biological secrets of these viral communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies building on this knowledge could benefit individuals with various health conditions influenced by viruses or the microbiome.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this fundamental research project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand how viruses interact with our bodies and microbiomes, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While methods for identifying viral genomes are established, this project focuses on novel analytical approaches to deeply understand their function and host interactions, which is an emerging area.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kyrpides, Nikos C — University of Calif-Lawrenc Berkeley Lab
- Study coordinator: Kyrpides, Nikos C
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.