How gene 'switches' (epigenetics) drive bile duct (cholangiocarcinoma) cancer
Epigenetic Mechanisms of Biliary Epithelial Neoplasia
Researchers aim to understand how two gene-regulating proteins (EZH2 and G9a) cause bile duct cancer and whether blocking them could stop tumor growth in people with cholangiocarcinoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251247 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on epigenetic changes—chemical tags on DNA-associated proteins—that help bile duct cancer cells turn genes on or off. The team studies two key enzymes, EZH2 and G9a, to see how they work together to silence tumor-suppressing genes. They use laboratory models and analyses of human tumor data and samples to map these changes and test ways to reverse them. Findings could point to new drug targets or biomarkers tied to cholangiocarcinoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cholangiocarcinoma or those willing to provide tumor tissue or clinical data to researchers would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: Patients without bile duct cancer or those needing immediate clinical therapy are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic science project right away.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify new targets for drugs or prevention strategies that slow or stop bile duct cancer growth.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies have linked EZH2 and G9a to cancer growth, but applying these findings to treatments for cholangiocarcinoma is still early and largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
New Orleans, United States
- Tulane University of Louisiana — New Orleans, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Tong — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Wu, Tong
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.