ANU Researchers Uncover Protein that Could Revolutionize Cancer Treatment

Researchers at The Australian National University (ANU) have made a significant discovery that could lead to more effective treatments for Hodgkin Lymphoma, a prevalent blood cancer. The study, published in the journal *Science Advances* on July 28, 2025, identifies a specific protein, H2A.B, which is typically found in sperm-producing cells within the testis but is co-opted by cancer cells in patients suffering from Hodgkin lymphoma. This finding has profound implications for developing targeted cancer therapies.

The lead author of the study, Dr. Xuanzhao Jiang, emphasized the unique role of H2A.B in cancer cell biology. "H2A.B functions like a rogue switchboard, actively reshaping gene expression and promoting tumor growth by altering the cancer cell's internal mechanisms," stated Dr. Jiang, who is affiliated with ANU’s Research School of Biology.

Professor David Tremethick, another co-author of the study, elaborated on the significance of this protein in cancer progression. "Because H2A.B is not present in most healthy tissues, targeting it could provide a highly selective approach to cancer therapy, minimizing collateral damage to normal cells," said Tremethick. This specificity could significantly reduce side effects commonly associated with conventional cancer treatments.

Associate Professor Tatiana Soboleva, also involved in the research, highlighted the novelty of their findings. "Previous studies suggested H2A.B’s involvement in cancer, but our research offers the first comprehensive examination of its mechanisms, revealing how it facilitates the hijacking of normal genetic programming by cancer cells," Soboleva explained.

The researchers discovered that H2A.B interacts with a group of proteins known as the SWI/SNF complex, which is essential for opening DNA and activating gene expression. Soboleva noted, "By blocking H2A.B’s interactions with these proteins, we could potentially halt its cancer-promoting effects."

Historically, Hodgkin lymphoma has been treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation, which can lead to severe side effects and long-term health complications. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 8,000 new cases of Hodgkin lymphoma are diagnosed annually in the United States alone, underscoring the urgent need for innovative treatment options.

The implications of this research extend beyond Hodgkin lymphoma. Understanding the mechanisms by which cancer cells exploit proteins like H2A.B can inform broader cancer research and treatment strategies. "Our findings represent a major step toward smarter, more targeted therapies that could revolutionize how we approach cancer treatment," Soboleva asserted.

The study is part of a growing body of research aimed at uncovering the molecular underpinnings of cancer, with the ultimate goal of developing therapies that are not only effective but also tailored to the individual patient’s genetic makeup. As the field of cancer research progresses, the potential for breakthroughs like this is becoming increasingly tangible.

For further inquiries or detailed discussion on the findings, media representatives can contact Jess Fagan, Media Manager at ANU, via email at jessica.fagan@anu.edu.au or by phone at +61 2 6125 0027.