How herpes simplex virus controls its genes and interacts with cells
Virus-cell interactions affecting HSV gene expression
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11254914
Researchers are looking at how the herpes simplex virus and human cells interact to turn viral genes on and off, which could help people with HSV infections in the future.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11254914 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work looks at how herpes simplex virus (HSV) interacts with human cells to switch viral and cellular genes on and off. Scientists run laboratory experiments that follow the viral genome early in infection, study chromatin and binding sites, and track the cellular machinery (including RNA polymerase II and the mediator complex) that drives transcription. The team compares events occurring on both the viral and host genomes to see how the virus hijacks normal cell processes. The hope is to identify specific molecular steps that could be blocked to stop virus replication.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with herpes simplex virus infection (oral or genital), especially those willing to donate lesion swabs, blood samples, or join future clinical follow-ups, would be most relevant to this line of research.
Not a fit: People without HSV infection or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could reveal new molecular targets to block HSV gene activation and reduce viral replication, guiding future treatments or preventive strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous basic virology studies have mapped viral transcription steps and identified potential targets, but translating detailed molecular findings into new patient therapies has been slow and remains challenging.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DELUCA, NEAL A. — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: DELUCA, NEAL A.
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.