Understanding how HPV-related cancers respond to DNA damage
Rewiring of epigenetic DNA damage response pathways in HPV-induced cancer
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11129687
This work explores how human papillomavirus (HPV) changes cancer cells, making them vulnerable to new treatments that improve radiation therapy for cancers like anal cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11129687 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
HPV infection can lead to cancers in the cervix, head and neck, and anus, and while radiation is a common treatment, recurrence rates can be high. This project looks at how HPV proteins alter the way cancer cells repair their DNA, which is called epigenetic signaling. We believe these changes make the cancer cells rely on different repair pathways. By understanding these specific pathways, we aim to find new ways to target and weaken cancer cells, making radiation therapy more effective while protecting healthy tissues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients diagnosed with HPV-induced cancers, such as anal, cervical, or head and neck cancers, who may undergo radiation therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers not related to HPV or those not treated with radiation therapy may not directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, more effective treatments that improve the outcome of radiation therapy for patients with HPV-induced cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While epigenetic signaling in DNA damage response is a known area of research, this project explores a novel concept of harnessing HPV-induced epigenomic alterations for tumor-targeted therapy.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GOLDSTEIN, MICHAEL — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GOLDSTEIN, MICHAEL
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.
Conditions: Anal Cancer, Anus Cancer