A saliva test to detect head and neck cancer recurrence
Official title: Validation of a saliva test using methylated microRNAs for head and neck cancer recurrence
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10932401 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a simple saliva test called HNKlear that can help catch the return of head and neck cancer early, making it easier for patients to get the care they need without invasive procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 21, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $305,067 |
| NIH project number | 5UH3CA262045-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932401 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck and are at risk for recurrence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with head and neck cancer or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a non-invasive saliva test called HNKlear for the early detection of recurrence in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). The test utilizes a panel of seven methylated microRNA biomarkers to provide timely and accurate results, addressing the limitations of current invasive and subjective detection methods. By analyzing saliva samples, the test seeks to improve patient outcomes through earlier intervention and monitoring. The research involves rigorous testing and validation to ensure the test's effectiveness and reliability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more accessible and cost-effective method for monitoring head and neck cancer recurrence, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar saliva-based tests, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Shi-Long — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Lu, Shi-Long
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Combined Imaging and RNA Markers to Predict Head and Neck Cancer Recurrence
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Enhanced detection of head and neck cancer recurrence using automated EV isolation and vibrational spectroscopy
A fast-track NIH grant is funding development of an automated test using blood or saliva samples to catch head and neck cancer recurrences early.
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Using imaging and RNA analysis to predict cancer recurrence in the head and neck
This study is looking for ways to predict if head and neck cancers might come back after treatment by using special imaging and tests on your RNA, so we can tailor your care and improve your chances of staying cancer-free.
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A research effort will look at why keloids come back after surgery, especially in African American patients, using comprehensive molecular data from patient samples.
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Oral cancer recurrence predictor using tumor microbes and gene activity
This NIH grant explores how bacteria and immune signals inside oral cancer tumors relate to whether the cancer comes back, with the aim of making a practical risk predictor for patients.
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Biomarker to guide treatment in head and neck cancer
A biomarker test using tumor samples is being developed to predict recurrence risk in oral cancers and help tailor treatment.
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.