New vaccine approaches to prevent Kaposi sarcoma virus (KSHV) infection
Targeting CD180 to induce anti-KSHV response in nonhuman primates
Looking at two vaccine methods — mRNA and a new CD180-targeted vaccine — to help prevent the virus that causes Kaposi sarcoma, especially for people with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143264 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project tests two different vaccine approaches against KSHV using rhesus macaques, an animal model that behaves like human infection. One approach uses mRNA in lipid nanoparticles similar to COVID-19 vaccines, and the other attaches KSHV protein pieces to a carrier that targets CD180 on immune cells to boost responses even in weakened immune systems. The team will compare immune responses to two viral targets (one structural and one non-structural) and whether vaccinated animals resist infection. Results are intended to guide future human vaccine development for people at risk of Kaposi sarcoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV, others with weakened immune systems, and individuals in areas where KSHV is common would be the most likely future candidates for related vaccines or trials.
Not a fit: People already diagnosed with KSHV-driven cancers are unlikely to see immediate benefit from a preventive vaccine and may not be helped by this work right away.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to vaccines that prevent KSHV infection and reduce AIDS-associated cancers such as Kaposi sarcoma.
How similar studies have performed: mRNA-LNP vaccines have been very successful for SARS-CoV-2, while the CD180-targeted vaccine approach has shown strong immune responses in animal studies but is novel for KSHV.
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.