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Impact of sulfated glycans on HSV-1 mediated entry and inflammation in iris stroma derived from human eye donors

Award Number: R15AI202615
ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY & INFECTIOUS DISEASES
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 09/08/2026
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 08/31/2029

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Impact of sulfated glycans on HSV-1 mediated entry and inflammation in iris stroma derived from human eye donors - PROJECT SUMMARY (ABSTRACT) Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a significant pathogen of acute anterior uveitis, a recurrent, vision- threatening condition that can result in cataracts, glaucoma, and irreversible vision loss. The iris, a specialized tissue of the anterior segment, is particularly vulnerable to HSV-1 infection and immune-mediated injury. Despite its clinical significance, the molecular mechanisms driving HSV-1 pathogenesis in the iris remain poorly understood, and current medications often cause significant side effects with long-term use. Novel interventions that simultaneously limit viral entry/spread and inflammation, with minimal toxicity, are urgently needed. To address this gap, we established primary human iris stromal (HIS) cells from healthy donor eyes as a novel in vitro model that recapitulates HSV-1 induced iritis. Using this system, this project evaluates MSGs for their ability to prevent viral infection, modulate inflammatory responses, and restore extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis in stroma of the iris. This project has three Specific Aims: (1) identify and characterize the most potent analog of MSGs that inhibit HSV-1 entry and replication in human iris stromal (HIS) cells; (2) define the mechanistic basis of MSG-mediated inhibition by determining whether MSGs block interactions between HSV-1 glycoprotein D (gD) and 3-O-sulfated heparan sulfate or entry receptors, including nectin-1 and HVEM; and (3) evaluate the anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects of MSGs by analyzing cytokine profiles and ECM remodeling genes. Together, these studies aim to advance dual-function therapeutics against HSV-1 associated iritis. Aligned with the NIH R15 mission, this project will engage graduate and professional students in virology, glycobiology, and ocular immunology research, strengthening institutional research capacity and training the next generation of biomedical scientists.


Issue Date FY	Funding FY	Legal Entity Name	Legal Entity Address	Legal Entity City	Legal Entity State	Legal Entity Zip Code	Legal Entity COUNTY	Legal Entity COUNTRY	Assistance Listing	Award Code	Budget Year	Action Date	Action Type	Action Amount

Issue Date FY: 2026 ( Subtotal = $558,646 )
2026	2026	MIDWESTERN UNIVERSITY	555 31ST ST	DOWNERS GROVE	IL	60515	DUPAGE	USA	Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research	000	1	9/8/2026	NEW	$558,646
														Subtotal = $558,646

Grand Total All Awards = $558,646

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Impact of sulfated glycans on HSV-1 mediated entry and inflammation in iris stroma derived from human eye donors

Award Number: R15AI202615

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY & INFECTIOUS DISEASES

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: SCIENTIFIC/HEALTH RESEARCH (INCLUDES SURVEYS)

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 09/08/2026

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 08/31/2029

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