Investigating the role of a viral protein in Kaposi's sarcoma and related cancers
Genetic and Biochemical Studies of KSHV LANA
This study is looking at how a specific part of the Kaposi's sarcoma virus helps it stick around in cancer cells, with the goal of finding new ways to treat people with AIDS and other weakened immune systems who are affected by this virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10806987 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), which is linked to several cancers in individuals with AIDS and other immunocompromised conditions. The study aims to understand how the latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) of KSHV helps the virus persist in tumor cells by facilitating the replication and segregation of viral DNA. By exploring the mechanisms of LANA, researchers hope to identify potential therapeutic targets that could disrupt the virus's lifecycle and improve treatment options for affected patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Kaposi's sarcoma, primary effusion lymphoma, or multicentric Castleman's disease, particularly those who are immunocompromised.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers not associated with KSHV or those who are not immunocompromised may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for cancers associated with KSHV, significantly improving outcomes for patients with AIDS-related malignancies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting viral proteins in other cancers, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for KSHV-related malignancies.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaye, Kenneth M — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kaye, Kenneth M
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.