Understanding how KSHV avoids the immune system

Immune Evasion Mechanisms of KSHV Complement and Fc-Receptor Proteins

NIH-funded research Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso · NIH-11080041

This study is looking at how the Kaposi sarcoma virus hides from our immune system so that we can find better treatments for cancers it causes, and it involves creating a version of the virus that can help us learn more about how it works.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (El Paso, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080041 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) evades the human immune system, which is crucial for developing effective treatments. The team is using advanced techniques to create a modified version of the virus that lacks a specific protein involved in immune evasion. By studying this modified virus, researchers aim to uncover how KSHV interacts with immune defenses and to identify potential therapeutic targets. This work is particularly important as KSHV is linked to several cancers, including Kaposi sarcoma and certain B-cell lymphomas.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Kaposi sarcoma or KSHV-related B-cell lymphomas.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancers not related to KSHV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating KSHV-related cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research on immune evasion by other herpesviruses has shown promise, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

El Paso, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.