Understanding how Epstein-Barr virus affects B-cells in the body
Official title: Exploiting Metabolism to Uncloak Epstein-Barr Virus Immunogens in Latently Infected B-cells
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-10897118 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Epstein-Barr virus, which can cause mononucleosis and some cancers, hides in the tonsils and B-cells, and it aims to find ways to help the immune system fight it better, so it can help people affected by these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $248,871 |
| NIH project number | 5R00DE031016-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10897118 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals over 21 years old who are infected with Epstein-Barr virus or have conditions related to it, such as Burkitt lymphoma or AIDS.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Epstein-Barr virus infections or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is known to cause infectious mononucleosis and various cancers, particularly in B-cells. The study focuses on how the virus establishes a persistent infection in the tonsils and B-cell compartment, and how it evades the immune response. Using advanced techniques like CRISPR, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that regulate the viral genome and identify potential immunogenic proteins that could be targeted for treatment. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to improve strategies for combating EBV-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the immune response against EBV and reduce the incidence of related cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding EBV's role in B-cell malignancies, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Rui — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Guo, Rui
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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.