Identifying immune markers in head and neck cancer for better immunotherapy responses

DNA-based Immune Phenotyping in HNSCC for Biomarkers of Response to Immunotherapy

NIH-funded research Brown University · NIH-11003723

This study is looking at ways to better understand how certain immune cells behave in patients with head and neck cancer, so we can find new markers that help predict how well they might respond to immunotherapy treatments, ultimately aiming to create more personalized care for each patient.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003723 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), which are aggressive tumors that often evade the immune system. The study aims to develop new biomarkers that can help predict how well patients will respond to immunotherapy treatments. By using advanced techniques to analyze DNA methylation patterns in immune cells, researchers hope to uncover critical insights into the immune environment surrounding these tumors. This could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for patients with HNSCC.

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 considering or currently undergoing immunotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancers or those not eligible for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification of patients who are likely to benefit from immunotherapy, enhancing treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers to predict responses to immunotherapy in various cancers, indicating that this approach could be effective for HNSCC as well.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.