Understanding how a specific protein affects the life cycle of HPV

Determining how a Werner helicase (WRN) tumor suppressor complex regulates the human papillomavirus 16 life cycle

['FUNDING_R01'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-11113813

This study is looking at how a protein called WRN interacts with the human papillomavirus (HPV) to better understand how the virus works, with the hope of finding new ways to treat HPV-related cancers that could help patients like you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11113813 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the Werner helicase (WRN) protein in the life cycle of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is linked to certain cancers. By studying how WRN interacts with HPV during its replication process, the researchers aim to uncover new strategies for targeting HPV-related diseases. The approach includes examining the DNA damage response and how disruptions in this process can lead to increased viral replication and cell proliferation. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to novel treatments for HPV-related cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are individuals diagnosed with HPV-related anogenital or head and neck cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with non-viral related cancers or those not infected with HPV may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating HPV-related cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting viral life cycles can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

RICHMOND, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Anogenital cancer, burden of disease, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.