Improving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer by targeting NRF2
Official title: Drugging NRF2 to improve radiation therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11073672 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blocking a protein called NRF2 might help make radiation therapy work better for people with head and neck cancer, so they can have a better chance at treatment success.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | December 19, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $647,754 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA290809-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073672 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who are undergoing radiation therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancers or those who do not have head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how inhibiting the NRF2 protein can enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The study aims to understand the role of NRF2 in cancer cell metabolism and its impact on treatment resistance. By using specific chemical inhibitors that target NRF2, the researchers hope to make cancer cells more susceptible to radiation treatment. Patients may be involved in trials that test these new therapeutic approaches to improve their treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective radiation treatments for patients with head and neck cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting NRF2 in cancer models, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Major, Michael Benjamin — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Major, Michael Benjamin
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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.