Targeting a specific enzyme to fight a type of lymphoma linked to a virus
Official title: Targeting IKKepsilon-mediated nucleotide synthesis in KSHV-associated lymphoma
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10879181 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called IKKepsilon helps cancer cells grow when they are infected with a virus linked to certain lymphomas, and it aims to find new treatments that could stop this growth for people dealing with these types of cancers.
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 start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $379,725 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA285192-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10879181 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with KSHV-associated lymphomas, particularly those who are immunocompromised, such as AIDS patients.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lymphomas not associated with KSHV or those who are not immunocompromised may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the IKKepsilon enzyme is involved in the metabolism of cells infected with Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), which can lead to certain types of lymphoma. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms by which KSHV manipulates this enzyme to promote cancer cell growth. Researchers will develop and test new small-molecule inhibitors that target IKKepsilon and related metabolic processes to potentially halt the proliferation of these cancerous cells. By focusing on the virus-host interactions, the research seeks to find innovative treatment options for patients suffering from KSHV-associated malignancies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients with KSHV-associated lymphomas, improving their treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting metabolic pathways in cancer is a growing field, this specific approach to targeting IKKepsilon in KSHV-associated lymphoma is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feng, Pinghui — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Feng, Pinghui
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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.