Biological clues for why ameloblastoma returns more often in Black patients
Biological Indicators of Racial Disparity in Ameloblastoma Recurrence
This project looks for biological signs in tumor samples that might explain and predict when ameloblastoma comes back, focusing on African American patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11237990 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, researchers will analyze tumor tissue and genetic changes from people with ameloblastoma, paying special attention to differences in African American patients. They will measure BRAF mutations and proteins tied to autophagy (such as LC3, p62, and Beclin1) in human tumors and in mouse models. The team will study whether autophagy-related processes let leftover tumor cells survive and later cause recurrences. The aim is to find biological markers that could signal higher risk of the tumor returning after surgery.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are people diagnosed with ameloblastoma — especially African American patients — who can provide tumor tissue samples or medical records.
Not a fit: People without ameloblastoma or those unwilling or unable to provide tumor tissue or records are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help identify patients at higher risk of recurrence so doctors can tailor follow-up and consider targeted treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have found BRAF mutations and increased autophagy markers in ameloblastoma, but using these findings to explain racial differences and predict recurrence is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akintoye, Sunday O — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Akintoye, Sunday O
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 below.