# RISK FACTORS FOR HUMAN T-CELL LEUKEMIA VIRUS INFECTION

> **NIH NIH R01** · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · 1988 · $24,996

## Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors associated with
infection with the Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus (HTLV) in an endemic
population in order to elucidate the origin, reservoir, and mode of spread
of the virus.  HTLV is the first oncogenic retrovirus which has been
isolated from humans, and is closely associated with adult T-Cell
Leukemia/Lymphoma in endemic populations.  In addition, antibodies against
the HTLV have been found to be much more prevalent among homosexual AIDS
patients than among unaffected homosexual controls.

The method to be used is that of a case-control study.  This will be
conducted in conjunction with population screening for antibodies by
Dr.\Myron Essex in Kyushu, Japan.  The population of Kyushu is particularly
appropriate for this study because of the relatively high prevalence of
antibodies against HTLV in the adult population (16%), as well as the well
established collaboration between Dr. Essex and Dr. Nobuyoshi Tachibana of
Miyazaki Medical School.  For the study, "cases" will include approximately
200 individuals within the screened population who have antibodies against
the HTLV.  Controls will include 400 individuals without antibodies matched
for age, sex, and residence.  In addition, close relatives of cases will be
included when available.  All subjects will be interviewed for a variety of
potential risk factors.  These will include:  contact with animals or
animal products, marital status and family size, sexual behavior,
occupation, religious practices, and food habits.

Gaining understanding of the origin, reservoir, and mode of spread of HTLV
is of significance in determining whether any preventive measures are
feasible in the control of HTLV-associated malignancy.  This study may also
contribute to the understanding of the etiology of AIDS.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 3176553
- **Project number:** 3R01CA038450-03S1
- **Recipient organization:** HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- **SAM.gov UEI:** JDLVAVGYJQ21
- **Principal Investigator:** NANCY E MUELLER
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 1988
- **Award amount:** $24,996
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 1985-07-01 → 1988-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/3176553

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 3176553, RISK FACTORS FOR HUMAN T-CELL LEUKEMIA VIRUS INFECTION (3R01CA038450-03S1). Retrieved via MORVS 2026-10-25 from https://api.morvs.ai/grant/nih/3176553. Licensed CC0.

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