Given the role of the PTEN, AKT1, MDM2 and p53 tumor suppressor-oncoprotein network in the regulation of cell survival and apoptosis, we hypothesize that the combined genetic variants in this tumor suppressor-oncoprotein network could collectively modify the risk of NPC; and these combined risk genotypes could serve as susceptibility markers for identifying high-risk subgroups of patients who might benefit from personalized prevention and treatment. The gene discussed is MDM2; the disease is nasopharyngeal carcinoma.