Understanding how a virus causes cancer in immunocompromised patients
Official title: Separating late gene transcription from viral DNA replication in KSHV
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10890178 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a virus linked to cancer affects people with AIDS, and it hopes to find new ways to treat cancers caused by this virus by understanding how it works at a genetic level.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $119,340 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AI173531-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890178 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with AIDS or other immunocompromising conditions who are at risk for KSHV-related cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have KSHV or are not immunocompromised may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) contributes to cancer, particularly in individuals with AIDS. The study employs advanced genetic techniques to explore the relationship between viral DNA replication and the expression of viral genes that are crucial for the virus's lifecycle. By identifying specific mutations that allow for viral DNA replication without triggering cancer-related gene expression, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for KSHV-related cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating cancers associated with KSHV in immunocompromised patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral mechanisms in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morgens, David W — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Morgens, David W
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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.