Investigating how Epstein-Barr virus causes B-cell tumors
Official title: Roles of LMP1 and MYC in EBV-induced B-cell tumors
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10917337 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Epstein-Barr virus might lead to certain types of blood cancers, like Burkitt lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma, and aims to create new lab models to better understand how the virus affects B cells, which could help find new ways to treat these cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $451,345 |
| NIH project number | 5U01CA284614-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917337 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with EBV-associated B-cell lymphomas or those at high risk for developing these conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with B-cell tumors not associated with Epstein-Barr virus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in causing various types of B-cell tumors, including Burkitt lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma. The researchers are developing new laboratory models to study how different forms of EBV latency affect the transformation of B cells into cancerous cells. By using a modified version of the virus, they aim to create a stable infection system that mimics the conditions under which these tumors develop in humans. This could lead to better insights into the mechanisms of EBV-induced cancers and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with EBV-related B-cell tumors.
How similar studies have gone: While research on EBV and its role in lymphomas has been conducted, this approach using a novel culture system is relatively new and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kenney, Shannon Celeste — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Kenney, Shannon Celeste
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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.