Using a blood test to predict the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma linked to Epstein-Barr virus
Epstein-Barr virus EBNA1 IgA as a biomarker in nasopharyngeal carcinoma risk prediction
This study is looking at a specific antibody in the blood that might help identify people at high risk for nasopharyngeal cancer, especially in Southeast Asians and immigrant Chinese communities, so we can catch the disease earlier and improve treatment outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10987599 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific antibody (EBNA1 IgA) as a potential biomarker for predicting the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in individuals, particularly in high-risk populations such as Southeast Asians and immigrant Chinese communities. The study aims to identify individuals at high risk for NPC several years before the disease manifests, using blood samples to measure antibody levels. By analyzing these biomarkers, the research seeks to improve early detection and screening methods for NPC, which could lead to better patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults from Southeast Asian or immigrant Chinese backgrounds who may be at higher risk for developing nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to high-risk populations or those who have already been diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier detection of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, allowing for timely intervention and improved survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using similar biomarkers for early detection of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shair, Kathy — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Shair, Kathy
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.