Why Powassan virus harms older brains
Mechanisms of Age Dependent Powassan Virus Neurovirulence
['FUNDING_R01'] · STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK · NIH-11224083
This work looks at why Powassan virus causes worse brain infection in older adults by studying how the virus gets into and damages the brain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11224083 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you or a loved one are worried about Powassan virus, this research is exploring why the virus causes more severe brain infection in older people. Scientists are comparing a virus taken from ticks with a weakened version in lab tests and in mice to see how the virus moves from the skin into the bloodstream and then into the brain. They will examine the brain's protective barriers and specific brain cells, and measure immune and inflammatory responses that change with age. Understanding these steps could point to ways to stop the virus entering the brain or reduce the harmful inflammation that leads to long-term damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living in areas where Powassan virus is found, especially older adults or those with recent tick exposure, would be the most relevant candidates for future related studies.
Not a fit: People without risk of tick exposure or whose brain injury is caused by other known conditions are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific virus-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to ways to prevent or treat Powassan encephalitis and reduce long-term neurological disability, especially in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown that weakened forms of related viruses can protect mice, but effective human treatments or vaccines for Powassan virus remain unproven.
Where this research is happening
STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES
- STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK — STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MACKOW, ERICH R — STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK
- Study coordinator: MACKOW, ERICH R
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.
Conditions: Acquired brain injury