Investigating how certain cellular processes contribute to head and neck cancer progression
Connecting liquid-liquid phase separation with super-enhancers and key oncogene transcription in HNSCC
This study is looking at how certain processes in cells help gather important proteins that might affect the growth of head and neck cancer, with the goal of finding new ways to treat this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11040306 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of liquid-liquid phase separation in cells, which allows them to concentrate important proteins that can influence cancer development, specifically in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). By examining how these processes interact with super-enhancers—regions of DNA that drive the expression of cancer-related genes—the study aims to uncover new therapeutic targets. The approach involves advanced techniques to analyze cellular behavior and gene expression patterns, potentially leading to innovative cancer treatments. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform the development of targeted therapies for HNSCC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who do not have HPV-related cancers.
Not a fit: Patients with HPV-positive head and neck cancers may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for patients with head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting super-enhancers in HNSCC is relatively novel, similar strategies in other cancers have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Jiong — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Li, Jiong
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.