Understanding how a virus linked to AIDS affects immune responses
Determining how Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus hijacks caspase function to inhibit anti-viral responses
This study is looking at how a virus related to AIDS affects the body's ability to fight off infections, focusing on a specific protein that helps the virus grow, with the hope of finding new ways to treat cancers like Kaposi's sarcoma that are linked to this virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001101 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), which is linked to AIDS, disrupts the body's antiviral immune responses. The study focuses on the role of a specific protein, caspase-8, which the virus manipulates to prevent the activation of type I interferon responses, allowing the virus to replicate more efficiently. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for treating KSHV-related cancers, such as Kaposi’s sarcoma. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are at risk for developing Kaposi’s sarcoma or other KSHV-related malignancies.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV/AIDS or are not at risk for KSHV-related cancers may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the immune response against KSHV and related cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding viral mechanisms can lead to successful therapeutic interventions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gaglia, Marta Maria — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Gaglia, Marta Maria
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.