Improving treatment for head and neck cancer using immunotherapy and radiation
Optimizing immunoradiotherapy for HNSCC
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10933484
This study is looking at how to make immunotherapy and radiation therapy work better together for patients with head and neck cancer who are HPV negative, by understanding how lymph nodes affect the immune response, so we can find ways to improve treatment results while reducing side effects.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10933484 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy combined with radiation therapy for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), particularly those who are HPV negative. The study investigates how the immune response can be optimized by understanding the role of lymph nodes in the treatment process. By exploring the interactions between immune cells and tumor cells, the research aims to identify better treatment strategies that minimize side effects while improving patient outcomes. Patients may receive a combination of PD-1 inhibitors and targeted radiation therapy designed to spare lymphatic tissues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with HPV negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who are seeking innovative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with HPV positive head and neck cancer or those who have already received extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with head and neck cancer, potentially improving survival rates and reducing treatment-related side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in combining immunotherapy with radiation, but this specific approach focusing on lymphatic sparing is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CALIFANO, JOSEPH A — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: CALIFANO, JOSEPH A
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.