Using mRNA technology to treat flavivirus infections
Official title: Treating flaviviruses with mRNA-encoded Cas13
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11115603 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | June 13, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $772,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179782-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115603 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are infected with or at high risk for flavivirus infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with flaviviruses or those with other unrelated viral infections may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Santangelo, Philip J — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Santangelo, Philip J
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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.