How cancer-causing viruses behave in low-oxygen environments
Official title: Transcription and Replication of Oncogenic Viruses in Hypoxia
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10914913 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses that can lead to cancer, like Merkel Cell Polyoma Virus and Epstein Barr Virus, behave in low-oxygen environments, and it aims to find out how these viruses might help cancer grow, so we can learn more about how to fight it.
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 start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,608,181 |
| NIH project number | 5P01CA281867-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914913 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with cancers linked to the studied viruses, such as Merkel cell carcinoma or Burkitt's lymphoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers not associated with the oncogenic viruses being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain viruses that cause cancer, such as Merkel Cell Polyoma Virus and Epstein Barr Virus, operate in environments with low oxygen levels. The study aims to understand the cellular processes these viruses exploit to promote cancer development. By examining the mechanisms of viral transcription and replication in hypoxic conditions, the research seeks to uncover new insights into viral oncogenesis. This collaborative effort involves multiple expert groups from the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on the metabolic changes induced by these viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers associated with oncogenic viruses.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of oncogenic viruses in cancer has been studied, the specific focus on their behavior in hypoxic environments is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Robertson, Erle S. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Robertson, Erle S.
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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.