Immunoregulatory Function of the HTLV-2 Tax Protein

Project Description Narrative:

HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 are the first known human retroviruses linked to human lymphoid malignancies. The HTLV-1 and HLV-2 Tax proteins mediate several key genetic pathways involved in cellular transformation and leukemogenesis. Information gained from this project will advance knowledge regarding the specific immunoregulatory pathways employed by the HTLV-2 Tax protein in human lymphocytes.

As the 20th century brought new health challenges such as AIDs and other diseases, and we begin the 21st century, Wisconsin will continue to be faced with both challenges and opportunities in its effort to improv life expectancy and quality of life. The state, the nation, and the world are in urgent need of novel strategies to treat the HIV infected population. This project envisions the generation of essential scientific information leading to a better understanding of HIV disease pathogenesis and its relationship with other retroviral co-infection, and ultimately to improve the health of Wisconsin through a new method of treatment for HIV-infected individuals.