Effects of sparing lymph nodes on cancer treatment in head and neck patients
Impact of lymph node sparing on the anti-tumor response for head and neck cancer treated with radiation and immunotherapy
This study is looking at how a special type of radiation therapy, combined with immunotherapy, can help boost the immune system's fight against head and neck cancer while protecting nearby healthy tissues, and it's for patients who are dealing with this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003316 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how sparing lymph nodes during radiation therapy and immunotherapy affects the body's anti-tumor response in patients with head and neck cancer. The study utilizes stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which delivers high doses of radiation precisely to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. By combining SBRT with immunotherapy, the research aims to enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer, particularly in tumors that are typically resistant to treatment. Patients will be monitored for changes in their immune response and overall treatment outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced head and neck cancer who are undergoing radiation therapy and immunotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage head and neck cancer or those who are not receiving radiation therapy or immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that enhance the immune response against head and neck cancer, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating that combining SBRT with immunotherapy can effectively activate anti-tumor immune responses.
Where this research is happening
Fort Collins, United States
- Colorado State University — Fort Collins, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boss, Mary-Keara — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Boss, Mary-Keara
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.