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Development of Novel Inhibitors of Human Cytomegalovirus

Developing new therapies for human cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Full Project Name:Development of Novel Inhibitors of Human CytomegalovirusPrincipal Investigator:Ravit Boger, MD, PediatricsAward Amount:$1,248,125
Award Date
July2025
Project Duration:48 months

Project Summary:


Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) poses a significant health threat in Wisconsin and other states and countries, especially for pregnant women and transplant recipients. CMV is the most common congenital infection, causing sensorineural hearing loss and neurological sequalae in children. In immunocompromised hosts, including children receiving bone marrow or organ transplants, CMV can lead to life-threatening complications and drug-resistant strains with almost no treatment options. As the largest children’s hospital in the state of Wisconsin, Children’s Wisconsin sees many severe CMV cases, underscoring the urgent need for improved therapies. This project addresses this need by developing novel small-molecule CMV inhibitors identified from a high-throughput screen of approximately 400,000 compounds. Researchers will select three “hits” that target different stages of CMV replication, determine their ability to select for resistance (hence new viral targets), synthesize analogs, and evaluate their antiviral potency, cellular toxicity, and mechanisms of action. This multi-pronged approach capitalizes on advanced virology, chemistry, and biochemistry expertise to identify promising drug candidates that can overcome existing limitations. The intended impact is to broaden the treatment armamentarium for children and adults with CMV disease in Wisconsin and beyond, reducing overall morbidity and mortality from this pathogen. By offering alternative, non-toxic oral therapies, the project team aims to fill critical gaps in CMV management and foster better long-term outcomes for vulnerable populations in Wisconsin and beyond.

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