How local antibodies help control recurring genital herpes
Role of local antibodies in control of chronic genital herpes
This project looks at whether antibody-producing cells in genital skin help people with recurrent genital herpes keep the virus under control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11249130 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
As a participant, I might give small skin biopsies during and after herpes outbreaks so researchers can study immune cells right where the virus reactivates. The team will isolate antibody-secreting cells from those tissue samples and read their activity using single-cell RNA sequencing and antibody isolation techniques. They will track whether these cells are long-lived, whether they live in the tissue, and whether the antibodies they make specifically recognize HSV-2. Comparing samples from the same person over time will help link local antibody responses to viral reactivation and control.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21 years and older) with a history of genital HSV-2 who are willing to provide genital skin biopsies and clinical information are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without genital HSV-2, minors, or those unwilling or unable to undergo small tissue biopsies are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments or vaccine strategies that boost local antibody protection and reduce herpes reactivation and symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: Early human tissue studies have already found antibody-secreting cells in genital skin, but turning those findings into treatments remains a new and developing area.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sholukh, Anton M — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Sholukh, Anton M
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.