NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

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.

More Head and Neck Cancer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project startSeptember 21, 2021
Project endAugust 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$305,067
NIH project number5UH3CA262045-04
Project IDNIH-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.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.