Undergraduate Research & Scholarships

Tianjian (Tim) Lin

The Role of CircRNA kcirc38 in Latent Infection of Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus (KSHV)

Kaposi’s Sarcoma Associated Herpesvirus (KSHV) is one of eight pathogenic herpesviruses that routinely infect humans that can induce several types of aggressive cancers in immunocompromised individuals. It can also establish lifelong latent infection with the ability to evade innate immunity, which has caused significant challenges in treatment development. In previous studies, although some circRNAs are shown to regulate host innate immune responses, the potential functions of the circRNA kcirc38 of KSHV are yet to be discussed: Does kcirc38 play an important role in the latent KSHV infection? This summer, I will try to answer that by analyzing the latency patterns of kcirc38 knockout mutants with RT-qPCR.

Message To Sponsor

Dear donors, I am truly grateful for the opportunities that have opened up for me because of your generosity, and your contribution will undoubtedly make a positive impact on many other students like myself. With your help, I am able to continue my research on circRNA and KSHV in the Liu Lab this summer. As I look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead, I am reminded of the incredible support network that surrounds me. Thank you for investing in my education and supporting the Berkeley URAP Fellowship!