Understanding how a specific protein helps the body fight a virus linked to certain cancers.
Official title: Role of LC3B in Host Defense against Human Herpesvirus 8 Lytic Replication
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11011477 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called LC3B helps our bodies fight off the human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), which can cause certain cancers, and aims to find new ways to help people who are affected by this virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 16, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $238,256 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI177806-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011477 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with HIV-1 infection or those on immunosuppressive therapy who are at risk for HHV-8-related malignancies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HHV-8 infection or related cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called LC3B in the body's defense against human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), which is associated with several cancers. The study focuses on how selective autophagy, a process that removes damaged cellular components, can target and eliminate the virus during its replication phase. By creating specialized cell lines, researchers aim to understand the mechanisms that activate this antiviral response when the virus infects cells. This knowledge could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients affected by HHV-8-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with cancers associated with HHV-8 by enhancing the body's natural antiviral defenses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of autophagy in viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Choi, Young Bong — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Choi, Young Bong
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.