Investigating a protein linked to the development of head and neck cancer
Official title: PDCD10 as a novel driver for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma development
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10884242 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called PDCD10 to see how it affects the growth and treatment resistance of a type of head and neck cancer called oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma, especially in patients whose cancer is not linked to HPV, with the hope of finding better ways to treat this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $205,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE032833-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884242 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those who are HPV-negative and have limited treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with head and neck cancers that are HPV-positive or those with other unrelated cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of PDCD10, a protein that may drive the development of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC), a common and aggressive form of head and neck cancer. The study aims to explore how PDCD10 influences cancer cell behavior, including growth and resistance to treatment, particularly in patients with HPV-negative cancers. By identifying the mechanisms through which PDCD10 operates, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new targeted therapies for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar oncogenic pathways in other cancers, suggesting that this approach may also be effective in head and neck cancers.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Izumchenko, Evgeny (Eugene) G — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Izumchenko, Evgeny (Eugene) G
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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.