Investigating how a virus alters metabolism in cancer development
Official title: CDK6-dependent metabolic reprogramming in KSHV pathogenesis
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-11179370 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a virus linked to Kaposi's sarcoma affects the way infected cells use energy, which might help us find new treatments for patients with Kaposi's sarcoma or similar blood cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $404,468 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033632-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11179370 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Kaposi's sarcoma or other B cell malignancies associated with KSHV infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without KSHV infection or those with unrelated cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how the Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) changes the metabolism of infected cells to support its survival and promote cancer. By examining the role of a specific enzyme, CAD, and its interaction with a cellular protein, CDK6, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind KSHV-induced metabolic changes. Patients with Kaposi's sarcoma or related B cell malignancies may benefit from understanding these processes, as it could lead to new treatment strategies targeting these metabolic pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that disrupt the metabolic adaptations of KSHV-infected cells, potentially improving outcomes for patients with related cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Jun — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Jun
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.