Combining radiation therapy with dual treatment to improve outcomes in recurrent head and neck cancer.

Treating recurrent HNSCC with radiation and dual TGF-Beta/PD-L1.

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10915627

This study is exploring a new way to treat patients with recurring head and neck cancer by combining radiation therapy with two special drugs to boost the immune system and make the treatment work better, which could lead to fewer side effects and improved results for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10915627 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment approach for patients with recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) by combining radiation therapy with dual inhibition of TGF-beta and PD-L1. The goal is to enhance the immune response against tumors while overcoming resistance to radiation therapy. By using mouse models, the researchers aim to understand how this combination can improve treatment effectiveness and reduce side effects associated with radiation. Patients may benefit from a more effective treatment option that could lead to better outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with locally recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who have not responded well to standard treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage head and neck cancer or those who have not yet undergone radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective treatment option for patients with recurrent head and neck cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using dual inhibition strategies in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.