Investigating how certain proteins affect the progression and treatment resistance of head and neck cancer.
Official title: "Role of Amplified Protein Kinases in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression and Therapy Resistance."
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-10725901 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to improve treatment for patients with head and neck cancer by exploring certain proteins that may help the cancer grow and resist current therapies, so we can find better options for fighting this tough disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $317,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE033064-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10725901 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage head and neck cancers that are easily treatable with current therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), which are challenging to treat and often resistant to current therapies. The team is examining specific protein kinases that are amplified in cancer cells, particularly those located on chromosome 3, to identify new treatment targets. By studying the effects of inhibiting these proteins, the research aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with HNSCC. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and analysis of patient-derived cancer models to understand how these proteins contribute to cancer growth and therapy resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance treatment effectiveness for patients with head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar protein kinases in other types of cancers, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Torres-Ayuso, Pedro — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Torres-Ayuso, Pedro
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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.