Gene editing to control herpes simplex virus type 2 infection
Official title: Meganuclease-mediated gene editing for durable control of HSV-2 infection
Funded at Caladan Therapeutics, INC. · NIH-11006727 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with recurrent genital herpes by using a special gene editing technique that might get rid of the virus for good, rather than just managing the symptoms like current treatments do.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Caladan Therapeutics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Vestavia Hills, United States) |
| Project start | August 5, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $303,731 |
| NIH project number | 1R41AI186683-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11006727 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are infected with HSV-2 and seeking more effective treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HSV-2 or those who are not over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new treatment for herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which causes recurrent genital herpes. Current treatments like acyclovir only manage symptoms but do not eliminate the virus from the body. The researchers are using a gene editing technique with meganucleases delivered via adeno-associated viruses (AAV) to target and potentially eliminate latent HSV-2 from nerve cells. This innovative approach could lead to a more effective and lasting solution for those affected by HSV-2.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a curative treatment for HSV-2, significantly improving the quality of life for patients suffering from recurrent genital herpes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using similar gene editing approaches for HSV-1, indicating potential for this novel application in HSV-2.
Where this research is happening
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Caladan Therapeutics, INC.
Vestavia Hills, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jerome, Keith R — Caladan Therapeutics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Jerome, Keith R
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Gene editing to durably control genital herpes (HSV-2)
This project uses a harmless AAV virus to deliver specialized gene-cutting enzymes aimed at removing latent HSV-2 from nerve cells in adults with genital herpes.
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.