Understanding how certain immune cells change in response to a virus
Official title: Characterizing single cell states of activated and transformed B cells in rhesus macaque models
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10799690 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Epstein-Barr virus affects important immune cells called B cells in monkeys, hoping to find early signs of cancer and better ways to diagnose and treat related diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | March 2, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $197,676 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171354-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10799690 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital or acquired immune deficiencies who are at risk for EBV-related diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without immune deficiencies or those not affected by EBV-related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) affects B cells, which are crucial components of the immune system. By studying rhesus macaque models, the researchers aim to identify specific markers and molecular signatures that indicate early cancer development and B cell transformation. The approach involves advanced techniques to analyze individual cells, allowing for a detailed understanding of how the virus alters these immune cells. This knowledge could lead to improved diagnostics and therapies for diseases related to EBV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for patients with EBV-related diseases, including certain cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral impacts on immune cells, but this specific approach using single-cell analysis in a pre-clinical model is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skalsky, Rebecca L — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Skalsky, Rebecca L
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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.