Aim: To investigate the role of AHR in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and explore the relationshipbetween Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection and the AHR pathway. Methods: The effect of LMP1 on theexpression of AHR was analyzed using real-time PCR and western blot. Proliferation and migration of cellswere assessed using CCK8 and Transwell analysis. Results: EBV infection downregulated the expressionof AHR in NPC cells, possibly through activation of the ERK pathway by LMP1 thereby acceleratingAHR proteasomal degradation following translocation to the nucleus. Cell proliferation, migration andautophagy are promoted by activating the AHR pathway. Conclusion: In NPC cells, LMP1 increases thephosphorylation of ERK, which may activate the AHR pathway.</p