Improving treatment for head and neck cancer using advanced light therapy and nanotechnology
Image-guided oxygen enhanced photodynamic therapy with multi-functional nanodroplets to improve head and neck cancer treatment outcomes
This study is testing a new light-based treatment for head and neck cancer that uses tiny particles to help deliver medicine right to the tumor, aiming to kill the cancer while keeping healthy tissue safe, so patients can recover better and possibly avoid major surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Medford NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896397 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) through a novel approach called photodynamic therapy (PDT). By utilizing a new nano-platform that improves the delivery of a photosensitizer and oxygen to tumor sites, the therapy aims to effectively target and eradicate tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Patients will benefit from a treatment that could potentially reduce the need for extensive surgery and improve overall recovery outcomes. The study will involve careful monitoring of treatment responses and side effects to optimize therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those with oral cavity cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced metastatic disease or those who have already undergone extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less invasive treatment options for patients with head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using photodynamic therapy for localized cancer treatment, indicating potential for success with this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, UNITED STATES
- Tufts University Medford — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mallidi, Srivalleesha — Tufts University Medford
- Study coordinator: Mallidi, Srivalleesha
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.