Investigating how a virus influences skin cancer development
Official title: Merkel cell polyomavirus T-Antigen mediated reprogramming in adult epidermis
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11030228 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a virus related to a rare skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma might change skin cells to help the cancer grow, with the hope that understanding this process could lead to better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 5, 2024 |
| Project end | February 4, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $47,938 |
| NIH project number | 5F31CA280993-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030228 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma or those with a history of Merkel cell polyomavirus infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of skin cancer unrelated to Merkel cell polyomavirus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare skin cancer linked to the Merkel cell polyomavirus. The study aims to understand how the virus's T-antigens reprogram skin cells, particularly those involved in the development of Merkel cells, to promote tumor growth. By exploring the mechanisms behind this transformation, the research seeks to uncover the relationship between latent viral infection and the onset of cancer. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatment strategies for MCC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with Merkel cell carcinoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral contributions to cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weber, Madison — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Weber, Madison
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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.