Understanding how cellular processes can limit KSHV infection
Official title: Restriction of KSHV by cellular RNA decay pathways
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11055320 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our cells can help stop the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus from spreading, which could lead to new ways to treat patients with related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,313 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA278642-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055320 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with KSHV-related diseases, such as Kaposi’s sarcoma or primary effusion lymphoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without KSHV infections or those not affected by KSHV-related diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cellular RNA decay pathways in restricting the lifecycle of Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), which is linked to several cancers. The study focuses on a specific mechanism called nonsense-mediated RNA decay (NMD) that may help prevent the virus from replicating in infected cells. By exploring how NMD interacts with KSHV, the research aims to uncover new insights into potential antiviral strategies. Patients with KSHV-related conditions may benefit from advancements in understanding how to control this virus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing KSHV infections and associated malignancies.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been success in understanding RNA decay pathways in the context of RNA viruses, the application of this knowledge to DNA viruses like KSHV is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karijolich, John — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Karijolich, John
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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.