TEAM EVICT
Enacting Viral Proteins In Cancer Therapy
Class of 2023 Researchers at the University of Maryland, College Park
WE ARE TEAM EVICT
ABOUT
We are a biomedical based research team in the Gemstone Honors Program at the University of Maryland. We are focused on using the nsp5 viral protein from the mammalian virus PRRSV (Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus) in cancer applications for Lymphoma. We aim to further research this protein's communication and interaction within the STAT3 pathway which is upregulated in many cancers. We hope to apply the viral protein for therapeutic purposes.
THE PROBLEM
Cancer is a highly dangerous and prevalent condition, being the second leading cause of death globally according to the World Health Organization. Cancer is different in each person due to a variety of genes and environmental stressors producing different types of cancer, progression, and treatment options for each person. Current treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, which are often very invasive treatments that cause pain in patients and destroy healthy cells along with cancer tissue. In addition, this type of systemic treatment is often unavailable in many countries due to high cost.
MISSION STATEMENT
Currently, it is unknown how exactly the nsp5 viral protein downregulates STAT3, which is highly expressed in Lymphoma. Our mission is to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis by downregulating the STAT3 pathway in Lymphoma cells through the use of nsp5 viral protein. Such a goal will expand on current research that can potentially lead to more effective and targeted cancer treatment. We have two objectives:
Aim 1: Determine the effect of nsp5 in reducing STAT3 for cancer therapeutic development in Lymphoma cells
Aim 2: Determine the mechanism of nsp5-mediated degradation of STAT3 by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway.
