Understanding how Kaposi’s sarcoma virus switches on late genes during infection
Official title: Separating late gene transcription from viral DNA replication in KSHV
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11598181 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are studying how the virus causing Kaposi’s sarcoma turns on late genes when its DNA copies itself, which could reveal new ways to treat cancer in people with AIDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $242,200 |
| NIH project number | 7R00AI173531-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11598181 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with AIDS or other immunocompromised conditions who are affected by KSHV-related cancers may benefit from future therapies arising from this research.
✕Less likely to help
People without KSHV infection or cancer may not directly benefit from this study.
What this research studies
This project looks at Kaposi’s sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV), a virus linked to cancer in people with weakened immune systems. Researchers will use advanced genetics and high-throughput methods to find viral changes that allow late gene expression to occur with DNA replication. By testing these viral components, they aim to uncover how late genes are controlled during infection. The work could point to new targets for therapies that prevent virus-driven cancers in AIDS patients. The approach combines patient-relevant biology with cutting-edge genomic techniques to map the viral mechanisms involved.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could identify new targets for therapies to prevent or treat virus-associated cancers in AIDS patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown that viral gene expression can be linked to DNA replication, but the precise mechanisms are still being clarified in KSHV.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morgens, David W — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Morgens, David W
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.