Understanding how hepatitis B virus causes cancer
Official title: Unveiling a Novel Mechanism of Oncovirus-Induced Carcinogenesis
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11040102 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the hepatitis B virus might cause liver cancer by examining tumors and cells from patients with the virus, hoping to find ways to better understand and treat those affected by HBV-related cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $78,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R03CA297201-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040102 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with HBV-related liver cancer or those chronically infected with hepatitis B.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without hepatitis B virus infection or those with cancers unrelated to viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the hepatitis B virus (HBV) contributes to cancer development, particularly liver cancer. By analyzing HBV-positive tumors and cell lines, the researchers aim to identify how HBV integrates into the host genome and potentially alters gene expression. The study employs advanced sequencing techniques to map these integrations and explore their role in chromosomal translocations that may lead to cancer. Patients with HBV-related cancers may benefit from insights gained through this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating liver cancer associated with hepatitis B virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding viral mechanisms in cancer can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cao, Jian — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Cao, Jian
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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.