How a herpesvirus evades the immune system in the mouth

Immune evasion mechanisms by a tumor herpesvirus in the oral cavity

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-10989973

This study is looking at how a virus linked to certain cancers in people with AIDS behaves in the mouth and how it avoids being fought off by the immune system, which could help us understand more about the virus and improve health for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10989973 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) interacts with the immune system in the oral cavity. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which the virus replicates in oral epithelial cells and how it can evade immune responses, potentially leading to various AIDS-related cancers. The study employs advanced molecular techniques to analyze viral and host factors that influence KSHV infection and persistence. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights into the virus's behavior and its implications for patient health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are at risk for KSHV-related malignancies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV/AIDS or are not at risk for KSHV-related cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating AIDS-related cancers linked to KSHV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding viral mechanisms in other contexts, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions AIDS associated cancerAIDS related cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.