How Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus spreads through the mouth
Unmasking the roles of viral glycoproteins in oral transmission of KSHV
Researchers are identifying which viral proteins let Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) infect people via saliva to help guide vaccine design.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11211108 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, this project uses a small nonhuman primate (common marmoset) model to mimic how KSHV is passed through the oral cavity. Scientists will test different viral envelope glycoproteins to determine which ones are required for oral entry and for producing KS-like disease when the immune system is weakened. Most prior work was done in cells in the lab, so this research moves those findings into a live animal that more closely models human infection. The team will use those results to pick specific glycoprotein targets for future vaccines or other prevention strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most relevant include those at risk for KSHV infection—such as children and adults in high-prevalence areas (notably parts of Africa) and people with weakened immune systems, including people living with HIV.
Not a fit: People without risk of KSHV exposure or with conditions unrelated to KSHV are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this preclinical animal-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to viral proteins to target in a vaccine or prevention that stops KSHV transmission through saliva.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory (in vitro) studies have suggested candidate glycoproteins, but testing these candidates in a live primate model is relatively new and not yet widely validated.
Where this research is happening
Duarte, United States
- Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope — Duarte, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ogembo, Javier Gordon — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Ogembo, Javier Gordon
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.