Award
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 5R01AI179758-03
Powassan virus evolution, fitness, and pathogenesis in the Northeast and Midwest United States
Recipient
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Award Amount
$697,161.00
Ceiling
$697,161.00
Awarded
July 01, 2026
Identifier
5R01AI179758-03
A research grant awarded to study the evolution, fitness, and pathogenesis of Powassan virus in the Northeast and Midwest US, focusing on genetic variability, tick-virus interactions, and disease heterogeneity to inform public health strategies.
Description
This project aims to evaluate regional differences in the genetic structure of Powassan virus (POWV) and its tick vectors, assess regional adaptation, and understand the impact of genetic variability on disease heterogeneity. The research involves extensive genomic sampling and experimental studies in mouse and tick systems to understand how POWV overcomes evolutionary barriers to emerge and cause disease in humans, which is critical for prediction, prevention, and control of this arboviral disease.