Targeting epigenetic and metabolic weaknesses in Epstein–Barr virus–linked throat and stomach cancers
Targeting the Epigenetic and Metabolic Control of EBV-Epithelial Cancers
This program aims to find drug targets by studying how Epstein–Barr virus and changes in cell metabolism and gene regulation drive EBV‑positive epithelial cancers like nasopharyngeal carcinoma and EBV‑associated gastric cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wistar Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11334338 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have an EBV‑linked epithelial cancer, this program focuses on how the virus and cancer cell biology — including gene switches (epigenetics) and metabolism — work together to make the tumor grow. Researchers at multiple labs will use laboratory models, patient‑derived samples, and drug‑discovery approaches to find weak points the cancer depends on. The team plans to translate lab findings into candidate therapies that could be tested in patients in later trials. The work is collaborative across experts in viral genetics, cancer biology, and drug development to speed progress toward treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are people with EBV‑positive epithelial cancers such as EBV‑associated gastric carcinoma or nasopharyngeal carcinoma who can provide tissue samples or consider enrollment in future clinical studies.
Not a fit: People whose tumors are not infected by EBV or who have unrelated cancer types are unlikely to benefit directly from this work, and current lab studies may not offer immediate treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could identify new targeted treatments or drug candidates specifically for cancers caused by Epstein–Barr virus.
How similar studies have performed: Previous preclinical studies have shown some promise for targeting epigenetic or metabolic pathways in EBV‑related cancers, but there are no FDA‑approved therapies that specifically target EBV in these tumors yet.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Wistar Institute — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lieberman, Paul M. — Wistar Institute
- Study coordinator: Lieberman, Paul M.
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.