How a virus contributes to cancer development in low-oxygen environments
Project 2: KSHV induces tumorigenesis by harnessing differentiation in hypoxia
This study is looking at how a virus linked to Kaposi's sarcoma might help cancer grow in areas of the body where there's not enough oxygen, with the hope of finding new ways to treat this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914918 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) influences the development of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in areas of the body with low oxygen levels. It focuses on the role of hypoxia, a condition common in solid tumors, and how KSHV may exploit this environment to promote the transformation of mesenchymal stem cells into cancerous cells. By studying the interactions between KSHV and the body's cells, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to tumor formation and progression in KS. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating this type of cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Kaposi's sarcoma or those at high risk due to HIV/AIDS.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers unrelated to HIV/AIDS or those without any form of Kaposi's sarcoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Kaposi's sarcoma in patients with HIV/AIDS.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of hypoxia in cancer can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yuan, Yan — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Yuan, Yan
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.