Do Cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr Virus Infections Exacerbate Symptoms of Cognitive Decline Following Chemotherapy for Ovarian Cancer?
Abstract
Background: Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), often called chemo brain, is a frequent side effect of chemotherapy and can be devastating to individuals with cancer and affects quality of life (QOL). However, despite its importance for patients, CRCI is poorly understood. Recent research has linked virus infections and inflammation to cognitive decline in the general population. We have recently demonstrated that cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein Barr virus (EBV) infections are common in ovarian cancer patients and may be associated with worse cognitive outcomes. Based on this preliminary evidence, the objective of the proposed study is to further assess and confirm the potential role of these viruses for CRCI and investigate the role of inflammation. Findings from this study could facilitate the development and testing of promising interventions targeted at these viruses, or inflammation, to prevent CRCI in those with ovarian cancer. Area of Emphasis: This research project addresses the OCRP Area of Emphasis, Identify and implement strategies to improve OCRP’s survivorship and quality of life. Approach: We will use data from two ongoing biorepository cohorts at the University of Minnesota (collected under the original OCRP award) and at the Moffitt Cancer Center (collected under the Ovarian Targeted Collection Project). We will analyze samples from 80 individuals with newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer. These individuals will be selected based on the availability of CRCI data and available blood samples at three time points: at diagnosis, after frontline-line chemotherapy, and 6-12 months after the end of front-line chemotherapy. We will analyze the blood samples for CMV and EBV viral infection status and biomarkers of inflammation. We will then assess the associations between (1) CMV and EBV status and CRCI, (2) inflammation and CRCI, and (3) how viral infection status plays a role in the relationship between inflammation and CRCI. Impact and Potential Clinical Significance: The proposed research will be relevant to military Service Members and other military beneficiaries and their family members who have either been diagnosed with ovarian cancer themselves or are otherwise affected by ovarian cancer. Linking cognitive outcomes in cancer survivorship to viruses and inflammation is novel. If we can confirm the hypothesized associations of CMV and EBV and inflammation with CRCI, this will directly lead to follow-up research studies in broader cancer populations who receive chemotherapy, including male cancer patients. Hence, this work will potentially have a far-reaching impact with implications for all cancers treated with chemotherapy, not just ovarian cancer. Our finding will also help to design future interventions to reduce CRCI. If targeting viruses such as CMV and EBC can disrupt CRCI from occurring after chemotherapy, steps could be taken to avoid CRCI.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 04, 2024
- Source ID
- HT94252310171
Entities
People
- Rachel Vogel
Organizations
- United States Army
- University of Minnesota