NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Combined Imaging and RNA Markers to Predict Head and Neck Cancer Recurrence

Official title: Combined Imaging and RNA Analyses to Predict Head and Neck Cancer Recurrence

Funded at Washington University · NIH-11607780 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A research project aims to use imaging and RNA data to better predict if head and neck cancer will come back, helping doctors tailor treatments for patients.

More Head and Neck Cancer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project startSeptember 17, 2026
Project endSeptember 16, 2028
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$1,315,306
NIH project number1R56DE034973-01A1
Project IDNIH-11607780 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, especially HPV-negative cases, who have imaging data and RNA biomarker information available for analysis.

Less likely to help

Patients whose tumors do not exhibit predictive imaging or RNA patterns may not benefit from this approach.

What this research studies

This project will develop multimodal models that integrate PET, CT, and MR imaging data with RNA biomarkers and clinical information to forecast early recurrence in HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. By combining radiologic, genomic, and histologic features, researchers hope to create a more accurate, non-invasive tool to guide therapy decisions and follow-up planning. The work builds on prior findings that RNA markers and imaging signals can reflect tumor biology and treatment response. The study involves analyzing patient data to identify patterns associated with recurrence and to validate predictive models in a clinical setting. If successful, the approach could enable earlier intervention and more personalized care for patients with this aggressive cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Patients could receive more personalized treatment plans and closer monitoring if their cancer is likely to recur.

How similar studies have gone: Prior studies have shown promise for combining imaging and molecular biomarkers to predict treatment response and outcomes in head and neck cancer, though this integrated model is advancing the approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Washington University
    Saint Louis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Li, Hua — Washington University
  • Study coordinator: Li, Hua

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.