**Texas A&M and University of Minnesota Researchers Awarded $3.8M to Develop New Mpox Treatment**
*College Station, TX / Minneapolis, MN* – Researchers from Texas A&M University and the University of Minnesota have been awarded a $3.8 million grant to develop a novel treatment for Mpox, the viral disease previously known as monkeypox. Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this collaborative effort aims to address the rising global need for effective therapeutics against the virus, which has seen periodic outbreaks in multiple regions.
The grant will support an interdisciplinary team of scientists as they work to create a targeted treatment that improves patient outcomes and curbs the spread of the disease.
### **A Growing Concern**
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, is part of the same viral family as smallpox. While it is less deadly, it can cause significant health issues, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash that can lead to painful lesions.
Recent outbreaks in non-endemic countries, including the United States, have highlighted the urgent need for better prevention and treatment strategies. Though vaccines and antiviral drugs like Tecovirimat (TPOXX) are available, the limited treatment options underscore the need for new therapies.
Dr. Sarah Johnson, an infectious disease expert at Texas A&M, emphasized the importance of this project: “Mpox outbreaks have shown us that we cannot be complacent. The virus has the potential to evolve and spread further, and we need to stay ahead with innovative treatments.”
### **A Collaborative Effort**
The project unites the expertise of Texas A&M’s virology and pharmacology departments with the University of Minnesota’s advanced biochemistry and molecular biology programs.
Dr. Michael Carter, the principal investigator from the University of Minnesota, explained the approach: “Our goal is to develop a treatment that targets the virus at multiple stages of its lifecycle. By combining cutting-edge research from both institutions, we aim to create a therapy that is not only effective but also scalable for global use.”
The researchers plan to focus on identifying viral proteins that are essential for the replication of Mpox. Once these targets are identified, the team will work to design small-molecule inhibitors that can block the virus from multiplying within the human body.
### **Why This Grant Matters**
The $3.8 million grant provides funding for a five-year research period, covering everything from basic science investigations to preclinical trials. The financial support will also allow the team to hire additional researchers, invest in state-of-the-art equipment, and conduct large-scale studies.
This grant is part of a broader NIH initiative to enhance pandemic preparedness and address emerging infectious diseases. The NIH has identified Mpox as a priority due to its potential for widespread outbreaks and significant public health impact.
### **Potential Impacts**
If successful, the new treatment could significantly improve outcomes for Mpox patients. Current antiviral treatments, while effective to a degree, are not universally accessible and have limitations in efficacy.
“This research could be a game-changer for how we manage Mpox,” said Dr. Emily Rogers, an epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “By expanding our arsenal of treatments, we not only improve patient care but also enhance our ability to respond to future outbreaks.”
Beyond Mpox, the insights gained from this research could have broader implications for other poxvirus-related diseases. The collaboration could pave the way for new therapies targeting a range of viral pathogens, bolstering global health security.
### **What’s Next?**
The researchers are currently in the initial stages of their work, focusing on identifying the most promising molecular targets. Once these targets are validated, the team will move on to testing potential drug candidates in laboratory settings.
Preclinical trials are expected to begin within three years, with the ultimate goal of advancing to human clinical trials by the end of the five-year funding period. If successful, the new treatment could be submitted for regulatory approval within the next decade.
### **A Unified Vision**
The partnership between Texas A&M and the University of Minnesota highlights the importance of collaboration in tackling global health challenges. “This is not just about Mpox,” said Dr. Carter. “It’s about creating a model for how institutions can work together to solve complex problems. We’re proud to be part of this effort.”
As the world continues to grapple with emerging infectious diseases, the work of these researchers offers hope for better treatments and stronger preparedness for the future. The $3.8 million grant is a significant step forward in ensuring that diseases like Mpox can be managed effectively, protecting public health on a global scale.