Investigating how diet and drugs can affect cancer development in the mouth

Pharmacological and dietary inhibition of a novel metabolic-epigenetic crosstalk in head and neck cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11044055

This study is looking at how a certain type of cancer in the mouth develops from a condition called leukoplakia, and it aims to find new ways to stop or slow down the cancer using lab-grown tissue models, which could help patients with better treatment options.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11044055 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the progression of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a serious type of cancer that starts in the mouth's lining. It explores how a specific metabolic pathway and epigenetic changes contribute to the development of this cancer from a premalignant condition called leukoplakia. By using advanced organoid models that mimic human tissue, the researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic targets that could inhibit cancer growth. Patients may benefit from insights gained about dietary and pharmacological interventions that could prevent or slow down cancer progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with leukoplakia or those at high risk for developing head and neck cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced head and neck cancer who are already undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary and pharmacological strategies to prevent or treat head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: addictive disorder, anti-cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.