How Epstein-Barr virus rewires metabolism in tonsil versus blood B cells
Epstein-Barr Virus Driven Tonsillar Versus Peripheral B-cell One-Carbon Metabolic Network Remodeling
['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11312695
Researchers are comparing how Epstein-Barr virus changes a specific metabolic pathway in B cells from the tonsils and from the blood, which may matter for people with EBV-related illnesses.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11312695 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at B cells taken from tonsils and from peripheral blood to see how EBV changes one‑carbon metabolism that supports cell growth and survival. Investigators will analyze patient-derived samples using metabolic profiling, molecular assays, and cell-based experiments to map differences between tissue sites. The work focuses on the early oral/tonsil stage of EBV infection that helps the virus persist and sometimes leads to lymphoproliferative disease or cancers. Findings will aim to link metabolic changes to virus programs that drive B‑cell activation and long-term EBV carriage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people able to donate tonsil tissue (for example during tonsillectomy) or give blood samples, especially those with a history of EBV infection or related conditions.
Not a fit: People without prior EBV exposure or those unwilling or unable to provide tissue or blood samples are unlikely to receive direct benefit from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify metabolic targets to prevent or treat EBV-associated lymphoproliferative diseases and craniofacial cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies show EBV can alter cell metabolism, but directly comparing one‑carbon metabolic remodeling in tonsillar versus peripheral B cells is largely novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GEWURZ, BENJAMIN ELISON — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: GEWURZ, BENJAMIN ELISON
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.