Using a viral gene drive to treat herpes simplex virus infections
Official title: Viral gene drive as a novel curative therapy for HSV infection
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-11041074 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to treat herpes infections using a special tool called CRISPR to help replace the virus with a safer version, aiming to lower symptoms and prevent future outbreaks for people living with chronic herpes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | February 21, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $247,126 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178255-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041074 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from recurrent herpes simplex virus infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have herpes simplex virus infections will not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections by utilizing a CRISPR-based viral gene drive. The method aims to replace wild-type HSV with an engineered version that can reduce viral levels and prevent outbreaks. By targeting the latent reservoirs of the virus in neurons, the therapy seeks to provide a long-term solution for patients suffering from chronic HSV disease. The research will explore the effectiveness of this gene drive in spreading through the viral population to achieve a curative effect.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking curative therapy for patients with chronic HSV infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of using gene drives in viruses is innovative, similar approaches in other contexts have shown promise, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walter, Marius — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Walter, Marius
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.