Understanding how local antibodies control chronic genital herpes

Role of local antibodies in control of chronic genital herpes

NIH-funded research Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-11026421

This study is looking at how certain antibodies in the body can help manage chronic genital herpes caused by the HSV-2 virus, focusing on the immune responses in the affected tissues to find new ways to control the infection better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11026421 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of local antibodies in managing chronic genital herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). It focuses on the immune responses occurring in the tissue microenvironment rather than just in the bloodstream, aiming to uncover critical mechanisms that help control the virus. By analyzing tissue samples over time and utilizing advanced single-cell RNA sequencing, the study seeks to identify unique antibody-secreting cells that may play a significant role in fighting HSV-2 reactivation. This approach could lead to new insights into how the immune system can better manage this persistent infection.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are infected with HSV-2 and experience recurrent outbreaks.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HSV-2 or those who do not experience recurrent outbreaks may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for controlling chronic genital herpes and enhancing patient quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of studying local humoral responses is relatively novel, previous research has indicated the importance of local immune mechanisms in controlling viral infections.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.