Understanding how a virus affects cancer cell survival and growth

Transcriptional Control of Cellular Survival and Proliferation in KSHV-transformed B Cells

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10795960

This study is looking at how a protein called IRF4 helps cancer cells grow in a type of blood cancer linked to a virus, and it hopes to find new treatment options that could help patients with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10795960 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific protein, IRF4, in the survival and proliferation of cancer cells transformed by the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), particularly in a type of blood cancer known as primary effusion lymphoma (PEL). The researchers aim to uncover how KSHV influences IRF4 and its relationship with another cancer-related gene, MYC. By analyzing the molecular mechanisms involved, the study seeks to identify potential new treatment strategies for patients affected by this cancer. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative therapies targeting these cancer pathways.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary effusion lymphoma or other KSHV-related cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers not related to KSHV or those without a diagnosis of primary effusion lymphoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating blood cancers associated with KSHV, improving outcomes for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of transcription factors in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.