Understanding a Virus to Treat Cancer
Studies in Poxvirus Host Range Genes and Tropism
This work explores how a specific virus, Myxoma virus, can be used to target and destroy human cancer cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086062 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are learning how certain cellular factors and virus components interact, which is important for how viruses affect our bodies and how our immune system responds. Myxoma virus, typically found in rabbits, has shown promise in infecting and killing many types of human cancer cells. Our goal is to understand these interactions better and find ways to make the virus even more effective at destroying cancer while leaving healthy cells unharmed. We are also looking at how blocking a specific cellular pathway can boost the virus's ability to kill cancer cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with various cancers who may benefit from future oncolytic virus treatments.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not respond to oncolytic virus therapies may not directly benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new and more effective oncolytic virus therapies for various cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Myxoma virus is currently being developed as an oncolytic virotherapeutic, indicating ongoing success in similar approaches.
Where this research is happening
Scottsdale, United States
- Arizona State University-Tempe Campus — Scottsdale, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rahman, Masmudur Mohammed — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Rahman, Masmudur Mohammed
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.