How Epstein-Barr Virus affects cell recycling processes
Official title: Molecular mechanism by which Epstein-Barr Virus-encoded BHRF1 blocks BECN1-mediated autophagy
Funded at North Dakota State University · NIH-10797685 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called BECN1 helps cells recycle and get rid of unwanted parts, and how the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) might mess with this process, which could lead to diseases like cancer; the goal is to find out how EBV affects BECN1 so we can come up with new ways to treat these illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Dakota State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fargo, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $100,000 |
| NIH project number | 3R15GM146232-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10797685 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been diagnosed with conditions related to Epstein-Barr Virus, such as certain cancers or infectious diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any connection to Epstein-Barr Virus or related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein, BECN1, in the process of autophagy, which is how cells recycle and remove unnecessary or harmful components. The study focuses on understanding how the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) interferes with this process, potentially leading to various diseases, including cancers. By examining the interactions between EBV and BECN1, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind EBV's ability to block and later manipulate autophagy during its life cycle. This could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for diseases associated with EBV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cancers and other diseases linked to Epstein-Barr Virus infection.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding viral interactions with cellular processes, but the specific mechanisms of EBV's modulation of autophagy are still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
North Dakota State University
Fargo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hershberger, John F — North Dakota State University
- Study coordinator: Hershberger, John F
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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.