Investigating how Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus is transmitted orally using a monkey model.
Oral transmission of KSHV using rhesus macaque rhadinovirus model
This study is looking at how a virus related to Kaposi’s sarcoma can spread through the mouth, using monkeys to help understand how it might infect kids in certain areas of Africa, so we can find better ways to prevent it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10902086 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to understand how the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is transmitted through oral routes by using a model involving rhesus macaques infected with a closely related virus. The study will explore the conditions under which the virus can cross the oral mucosa and establish an infection, mimicking the early-life infections seen in children in sub-Saharan Africa. Researchers will conduct both in vivo experiments in monkeys and in vitro studies to analyze the viral receptors involved in transmission. This comprehensive approach seeks to uncover the mechanisms of oral transmission that could inform prevention strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old, particularly those living in regions where KSHV is prevalent.
Not a fit: Patients who are not children or those who do not live in areas with high KSHV prevalence may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention of KSHV transmission, potentially reducing the incidence of related cancers in at-risk populations.
How similar studies have performed: While this specific approach is novel, similar studies have shown success in understanding viral transmission mechanisms in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wong, Scott W — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Wong, Scott W
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.