How HTLV-1 infected T cells interact with bone early on
Project 2: Early crosstalk between HTLV-1 infected T cells and bone microenvironment
['FUNDING_P01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11198131
This project looks at how HTLV-1 infected T cells from people with ATLL send signals that make bone cells break down and change the bone environment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11198131 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team studies cells and tiny particles taken from people with HTLV-1/ATLL and uses lab and animal models to see how those particles drive bone-eating cells (osteoclasts). They focus on the very early interaction between infected T cells before they become full-blown cancer and how that feedback reshapes bone and supports tumor growth. Experiments examine signaling pathways such as Notch and TGFβ and measure metabolic changes in osteoclasts exposed to small extracellular vesicles. Findings come from a mix of patient-derived samples, cell-line work, and in vivo models to connect human biology to potential treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with HTLV-1 infection or diagnosed adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, or those willing to donate blood or tumor samples, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without HTLV-1 infection or whose cancers do not involve bone changes are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to ways to prevent bone loss and dangerous high calcium levels in people with HTLV-1 infection or ATLL.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work, including the investigators' prior studies, showed ATLL cells and their vesicles can activate osteoclasts, but focusing on early infected T cells and their feedback on bone is a novel angle.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VEIS, DEBORAH J — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: VEIS, DEBORAH J
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.