Identifying biomarkers for treatment resistance in head and neck cancer
Determination of functional and molecular biomarkers of treatment resistance with multimodal optical spectroscopy
This study is looking to help people with head and neck cancer by figuring out who will get the most benefit from radiation and chemotherapy, using special light-based techniques to see how their tumors are doing in real-time, so doctors can make better treatment choices and avoid giving patients treatments that might not work for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arkansas at Fayetteville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fayetteville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10894158 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving cancer treatment outcomes by identifying which patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) will benefit from radiation and chemotherapy. The approach utilizes advanced non-invasive optical techniques to assess tumor characteristics in real-time, allowing for early detection of treatment resistance. By analyzing metabolic and functional changes in tumors, the research aims to provide critical information that can guide treatment decisions and potentially spare patients from ineffective therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who are about to undergo radiation and chemotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancers or those who are not receiving radiation or chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized cancer treatments, improving outcomes and reducing unnecessary suffering for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using optical spectroscopy for similar applications, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Fayetteville, United States
- University of Arkansas at Fayetteville — Fayetteville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rajaram, Narasimhan — University of Arkansas at Fayetteville
- Study coordinator: Rajaram, Narasimhan
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.