Finding new ways to fight cancers caused by the KSHV virus
Cell model for KSHV infection and genetic manipulation
This work explores how the KSHV virus causes certain cancers, like Kaposi's sarcoma, by studying how these cancer cells use energy, hoping to find new ways to stop their growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11093418 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Kaposi's sarcoma and other cancers caused by the KSHV virus are difficult to treat, and new options are urgently needed. This project aims to understand how these cancer cells reprogram their energy use, particularly how they become dependent on nutrients like glutamine to fuel their rapid growth. Researchers are using advanced cell models and genetic tools to pinpoint the exact pathways that KSHV-infected cells hijack. By identifying these unique metabolic weaknesses, we hope to uncover new targets for medicines. The ultimate goal is to develop more effective and targeted therapies for patients living with KSHV-related cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with Kaposi's sarcoma or other KSHV-related cancers could potentially benefit from future therapies developed from this fundamental understanding.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers are not caused by the KSHV virus would likely not receive direct benefit from therapies specifically targeting KSHV-related metabolic pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to the development of new, more effective treatments for Kaposi's sarcoma and other cancers caused by the KSHV virus.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon previous successes in developing cell models and genetic tools to understand KSHV-induced cancers, with some identified targets showing potential for clinical translation.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gao, Shou-Jiang — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Gao, Shou-Jiang
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.