Investigating how certain cancer cells change in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Official title: 3D Culture Models of Partial-EMT and Its Regulation in Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10894287 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals from nearby cells affect the behavior of oral cavity cancer cells, using special models made from patient tissues, to find better ways to treat and personalize care for people with this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $165,456 |
| NIH project number | 5K08DE033093-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894287 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of head and neck cancers or those not diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the behavior of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells, particularly how they undergo a process called partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (p-EMT). By using advanced three-dimensional organoid models derived from patient tissues, the study aims to explore how specific signals from surrounding cells influence cancer cell characteristics and treatment responses. The researchers will analyze the interactions between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts to identify potential new therapeutic targets. This approach seeks to improve patient stratification and the development of targeted treatments for OSCC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma by identifying new therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using three-dimensional organoid models to study cancer biology, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parikh, Anuraag Suhrid — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Parikh, Anuraag Suhrid
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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.