Understanding how a virus affects a key enzyme related to cell health and potential treatments.
Mechanism and Therapeutic Implication of Host Cell Telomerase Modulation by Human Cytomegalovirus
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11004095
This study is looking at how the Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) affects a key enzyme called telomerase, which helps keep our DNA healthy, and whether blocking this enzyme can help stop the virus from spreading, with the goal of finding better treatments for people, especially those with weakened immune systems or newborns at risk of infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11004095 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and the host enzyme telomerase, which is crucial for maintaining DNA integrity. The study aims to determine how HCMV infection influences telomerase activity and whether inhibiting this enzyme can reduce the virus's ability to replicate. By using various cell lines and pharmaceutical inhibitors, the researchers will explore the potential for new antiviral therapies targeting telomerase. This could lead to better treatment options for individuals affected by HCMV, particularly those who are immunocompromised or at risk of congenital infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women at risk of congenital HCMV infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HCMV or those with mild infections that do not require antiviral treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new antiviral therapies that effectively reduce HCMV infection and its associated complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting telomerase can significantly reduce viral infectivity in laboratory settings, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES — Newark, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CAVANAUGH, CHLOE M — RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: CAVANAUGH, CHLOE 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.