Targeting EBV-related lymphoma with a new medicine

Who could benefit from this research

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.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Wistar Institute
  Philadelphia, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Lieberman, Paul M. — Wistar Institute
• Study coordinator: Lieberman, Paul M.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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• How Epstein-Barr virus contributes to aggressive B‑cell lymphoma (DLBCL)

  This work looks at how Epstein‑Barr virus affects certain types of diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma (DLBCL) to find new treatment targets for people with DLBCL, including those living with HIV.

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  NIH research Stanford University · Stanford, United States · NIH-11237062

• Analyzing genetic mutations in cancer to improve treatment

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  NIH research Broad Institute, INC. · Cambridge, United States · NIH-11191176

• Targeting MALT1 in African American adults with diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma

  This project is developing MALT1‑blocking drugs to help African American adults with aggressive or treatment‑resistant diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma.

  NIH research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · New York, United States · NIH-11187680

About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.