Developing new treatments targeting a virus linked to certain cancers
Targeting EBV's Deubiquitinating Activity for Therapy
This study is looking for new medicines that can help people with illnesses caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus, like certain cancers and multiple sclerosis, by blocking a specific virus protein that makes these diseases worse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Valhalla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140533 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), which is associated with various cancers and diseases, including Burkitt's lymphoma and multiple sclerosis. The team aims to discover small molecule inhibitors that can block a specific protein (BPLF1) produced by the virus, which plays a role in the disease process. By using high throughput screening methods, they will identify potential drug candidates that could lead to effective therapies for patients suffering from EBV-related illnesses. This work is crucial as there are currently no targeted treatments available for these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with EBV-related conditions such as Burkitt's lymphoma or those at risk of developing EBV-associated diseases.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have EBV-related illnesses or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies for patients with EBV-related cancers and diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting viral proteins for therapy is a common approach, this specific focus on BPLF1 and its deubiquitinating activity is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Where this research is happening
Valhalla, United States
- New York Medical College — Valhalla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whitehurst, Christopher Benton — New York Medical College
- Study coordinator: Whitehurst, Christopher Benton
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.