Using mRNA technology to treat flavivirus infections

Treating flaviviruses with mRNA-encoded Cas13

['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11115603

This study is exploring a new treatment that uses advanced technology to help fight off viruses like Dengue, West Nile, and Zika, which could give patients a better chance at recovery from these infections.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorEMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11115603 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel antiviral treatment for flavivirus infections, such as those caused by Dengue, West Nile, and Zika viruses. The approach utilizes mRNA-encoded Cas13, a programmable RNase that can target and degrade viral RNA, potentially offering a more effective treatment option. By leveraging the capabilities of mRNA technology, the research aims to create a treatment that is both efficient and capable of addressing the challenges posed by viral mutations. Patients may benefit from a new therapeutic option that could improve outcomes for those infected with these viruses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are infected with or at high risk for flavivirus infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with flaviviruses or those with other unrelated viral infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking antiviral treatment for flavivirus infections, significantly improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of mRNA technology in antiviral development is relatively novel, there have been promising results in other areas of mRNA applications, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

ATLANTA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.