Investigating genes linked to smoking in head and neck cancer in Appalachia
Official title: Evaluation of smoking-associated genes in disparate Appalachian head and neck cancer
Funded at West Virginia University · NIH-10863886 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might affect why smokers in the Appalachian region often have more advanced head and neck cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve their treatment and survival.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $190,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE032468-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10863886 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals from the Appalachian region who have been diagnosed with late-stage head and neck cancer and have a history of tobacco use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of smoking or those with early-stage head and neck cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to the high rates of late-stage head and neck cancer among smokers in the Appalachian region. By analyzing specific genes associated with smoking, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to poorer survival rates in these patients. The research will utilize genomic analysis to identify both well-known and lesser-studied genes that may play a role in cancer progression. The ultimate goal is to find new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies and better survival rates for patients with head and neck cancer linked to smoking.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying genetic factors associated with cancer outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
West Virginia University
Morgantown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weed, Scott a — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Weed, Scott a
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Blood-based markers to identify lung cancer risk in never-smokers
A researchers team at NYU School of Medicine is testing blood tests that might flag higher lung cancer risk in people who have never smoked, helping decide who might need screening.
-
Combined Imaging and RNA Markers to Predict Head and Neck Cancer Recurrence
A research project aims to use imaging and RNA data to better predict if head and neck cancer will come back, helping doctors tailor treatments for patients.
-
Biomarker to guide treatment in head and neck cancer
A biomarker test using tumor samples is being developed to predict recurrence risk in oral cancers and help tailor treatment.
-
Intensive dental care during cancer follow-up to protect teeth after head and neck radiation
A program delivered in oncology clinics to provide fluoride varnish and dental follow-up aims to reduce tooth decay and improve oral health and quality of life for head and neck cancer patients after radiation therapy.
-
Social stress and smoking: why disadvantaged young adults struggle to quit
This grant looks at how daily social stress affects if and when disadvantaged young adults who smoke can quit and stay quit.
-
AI-powered radiotherapy planning for cervical and head-and-neck cancer
A computer program helps plan radiation therapy for cervical and head-and-neck cancer patients to make treatments faster and more accurate.
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.