How viral RNAs change immune cells
Viral Noncoding RNAs and Cell Transformation
['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11251999
Researchers look at how small viral RNAs from certain herpesviruses change B and T immune cells to help people with virus-linked infections and cancers.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | YALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11251999 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at noncoding RNAs made by several oncogenic herpesviruses that infect human B and T cells. In the lab, scientists use human blood cells and cultured immune cells to map viral RNA structures, find which cell proteins they bind, and see how they change the cell's own RNA messages. They focus on viral RNAs such as EBV's EBERs, KSHV's PAN RNA, and HVS small RNAs and test effects on microRNA production, mRNA stability, and cell growth. Understanding these interactions could point to new ways to block viruses from driving lymphoma or to harness RNA mechanisms for therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would include people with EBV- or KSHV-related infections or cancers, or healthy volunteers willing to donate blood samples.
Not a fit: People with conditions unrelated to herpesviruses or who cannot provide blood samples are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal new targets to prevent or treat herpesvirus-linked cancers and improve antiviral strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory work has uncovered important roles for these viral RNAs, but applying those findings to patient treatments is still early and novel.
Where this research is happening
NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES
- YALE UNIVERSITY — NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STEITZ, JOAN A. — YALE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: STEITZ, JOAN 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.