NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how HPV16 affects host gene activity

Official title: Mechanisms and consequences of human papillomavirus 16 E2 regulation of host gene transcription

Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11030804 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific protein from the HPV16 virus affects the way our cells read their genes, which could help us find new ways to treat cancers linked to HPV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project startFebruary 8, 2024
Project endDecember 31, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$188,241
NIH project number5R21AI178143-02
Project IDNIH-11030804 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with HPV16 infections or those at risk for HPV-related cancers, such as cervical or anogenital cancers.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have HPV infections or are not at risk for HPV-related cancers may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the E2 protein from human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) in regulating the transcription of host genes. By studying how E2 interacts with both viral and host DNA, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that allow HPV16 to replicate and persist in human cells. The approach includes using advanced techniques like RNA sequencing to analyze gene expression changes in cells expressing E2 compared to control cells. This understanding could lead to new strategies for targeting HPV-related cancers.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for treating HPV-related cancers.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding viral mechanisms can lead to successful interventions in viral-related cancers, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

  • Virginia Commonwealth University
    Richmond, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Morgan, Iain — Virginia Commonwealth University
  • Study coordinator: Morgan, Iain

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.