Investigating how a chemical receptor affects immune responses in oral cancer
An Environmental Chemical Receptor, the AhR, as a Mediator of Multiple Immune Checkpoints in Oral Cancer
This study is looking at how a specific protein in our bodies affects the immune system's ability to fight oral cancer, and it's testing whether removing this protein from cancer cells in mice can help boost the immune response, with the hope of finding better treatments for people with head and neck cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10876935 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) in oral cancer, specifically head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). It aims to explore how chronic activation of this receptor influences immune checkpoints that can suppress the body's ability to fight cancer. By using a mouse model, the study examines the effects of deleting the AhR from cancer cells, which may enhance the immune response against tumors. The ultimate goal is to identify new strategies for improving immunotherapy outcomes for patients with HNSCC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who may benefit from enhanced immunotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy treatments for patients with oral cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune checkpoints in cancer, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sherr, David H — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Sherr, David H
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.