Stopping a virus from causing a serious skin cancer
Targeting MCPyV oncogene transcription to suppress tumorigenesis
This project aims to understand how a common skin virus, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), causes a highly aggressive skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), especially in people with weakened immune systems like those with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11128754 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a very aggressive skin cancer, and its occurrence has tripled recently, with limited effective treatments available. This cancer is often linked to the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), which is more likely to cause cancer in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as HIV patients. We are working to understand how this virus's genes are turned on, as this process is crucial for the cancer to grow. By learning more about these mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to stop the virus from causing cancer and develop better treatments for MCC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to patients with Merkel cell carcinoma, especially those who are also immunocompromised or living with HIV.
Not a fit: Patients without Merkel cell carcinoma or those not at risk for MCPyV-associated cancers may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new and more effective treatments for Merkel cell carcinoma, particularly for patients who are immunocompromised.
How similar studies have performed: The mechanisms regulating MCPyV's cancer-causing activity are poorly understood, making this a novel and foundational area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: You, Jianxin — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: You, Jianxin
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.