Investigating the link between cytomegalovirus and childhood leukemia
Cytomegalovirus as an etiologic and clinico-pathogenic factor in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
This study is looking at how being infected with a virus called neonatal cytomegalovirus (nCMV) might raise the chances of kids developing a type of cancer called acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and it’s for families who want to understand more about the possible links between this virus and leukemia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11144293 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how neonatal cytomegalovirus (nCMV) infection may increase the risk of developing acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children. By analyzing a large group of cases and controls, the study aims to identify the relationship between nCMV and ALL, including how it may influence the genetic makeup of leukemia tumors. The researchers will also consider other factors such as birth weight and parental age to provide a comprehensive view of the risk factors involved. This could lead to new insights into prevention strategies for this common childhood cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, particularly those with a history of neonatal cytomegalovirus infection.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have acute lymphoblastic leukemia or who were not exposed to neonatal cytomegalovirus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for childhood leukemia, potentially reducing the incidence of this disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested a strong link between neonatal cytomegalovirus infection and childhood leukemia, indicating that this research builds on promising preliminary findings.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wiemels, Joseph Leo — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Wiemels, Joseph Leo
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.