Targeting EBV-related lymphoma with a new medicine
EBNA1 Inhibitor for Treatment of EBV-positive DLBCL
['FUNDING_R01'] · WISTAR INSTITUTE · NIH-11125780
This project is developing a new medicine to help people with a type of lymphoma caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WISTAR INSTITUTE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11125780 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is linked to many cancers, including a specific type of lymphoma called EBV-positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), for which new treatments are urgently needed. Researchers are focusing on a unique viral protein called EBNA1, which is consistently present in these cancers and serves as a promising target for new therapies. Scientists have developed a new medicine, VK-2019, specifically designed to block EBNA1. Early tests, including a small study in people, suggest that VK-2019 is safe and can reduce virus levels, offering hope for patients with this challenging cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be patients diagnosed with EBV-positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma who are seeking new therapeutic approaches.
Not a fit: Patients with lymphomas not linked to the Epstein-Barr virus or other types of cancer would likely not benefit from this specific treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new medicine could offer a much-needed treatment option for patients with EBV-positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, a cancer with limited current therapies.
How similar studies have performed: The new medicine, VK-2019, has already completed a first-in-human Phase I clinical study, demonstrating safety and a reduction in EBV levels in patients with a related cancer.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- WISTAR INSTITUTE — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LIEBERMAN, PAUL M. — WISTAR INSTITUTE
- Study coordinator: LIEBERMAN, PAUL 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.
Conditions: Anti-Cancer Agents