Investigating how methionine and PI3K metabolism affect certain cancers linked to Epstein-Barr virus.

Methionine and PI3K Metabolism Drive CIMP in EBV Epithelial Cancers

NIH-funded research Wistar Institute · NIH-11085167

This study is looking at how the Epstein-Barr virus affects certain types of cancers, like stomach and throat cancer, to find new ways to treat them by targeting specific changes in the cancer cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWistar Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085167 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in epithelial cancers, particularly gastric cancer and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. It aims to explore how EBV interacts with tumor metabolism, specifically through the mechanisms of DNA methylation and PI3K signaling pathways. By utilizing advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, the study seeks to identify critical host factors that could be targeted to reverse cancer-promoting changes. The ultimate goal is to develop precision therapies that can effectively treat these cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with gastric cancer or nasopharyngeal carcinoma associated with Epstein-Barr virus.

Not a fit: Patients with non-EBV-related cancers or those without epithelial cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for patients with EBV-associated epithelial cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in EBV-associated cancers, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.