The long-term goal of this project is to identify the virus associated with LGL leukemia. This application represents a combination of classical and cutting edge approaches led by a multi-disciplinary team whose members are internationally recognized for their individual contributions to cancer research and mammalian genomics. We propose that LGL leukemia is caused by a novel retrovirus with similarities to both HTLV and HIV. We will use classical virology methods to isolate the LGL leukemia virus. We will test the hypothesis that the LGL virus can be transmitted from infected cells to target cells and identify optimum targets for high titer virus production. We will use state-of-the-art deep sequencing combined with whole genome analytical approaches to identify LGL leukemia viral sequences.

Public Health Relevance

This study is investigating the role of a virus in LGL leukemia development. The purpose of this study is to identify the LGL leukemia virus and to understand how it might cause leukemia. This information will make it easier to detect people who are at risk for LGL leukemia, to prevent LGL leukemia and to better treat patients who are affected by the LGL leukemia virus. It will also allow us to determine if the LGL leukemia virus is involved in other cancers and diseases with features that are similar to LGL leukemia.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
1R01CA170334-01
Application #
8383318
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZCA1-SRLB-9 (M1))
Program Officer
Read-Connole, Elizabeth Lee
Project Start
2012-09-17
Project End
2013-08-31
Budget Start
2012-09-17
Budget End
2013-08-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2012
Total Cost
$548,147
Indirect Cost
$182,571
Name
Pennsylvania State University
Department
Internal Medicine/Medicine
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
129348186
City
Hershey
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
17033
Yan, Yiyi; Olson, Thomas L; Nyland, Susan B et al. (2015) Emergence of a STAT3 mutated NK clone in LGL leukemia. Leuk Res Rep 4:4-7