Investigating how Galectin-1 affects immune suppression in head and neck cancer
The role of Galectin-1 in shaping the immune suppressive landscape in head and neck cancer
This study is looking at how a protein called Galectin-1 affects a common type of cancer in the head and neck, and it hopes to find ways to improve treatments by blocking this protein to help the immune system fight the cancer better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11030723 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of Galectin-1 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a common type of cancer. It examines how tumor-induced immune suppression, particularly through myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), contributes to cancer progression and metastasis. The study aims to explore the mechanisms by which Galectin-1 promotes MDSC expansion and how blocking Galectin-1 could enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies, such as anti-PD-1 treatments. By analyzing tumor samples and immune responses, the research seeks to identify potential new therapeutic strategies 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 are not infected with human papillomavirus (HPV).
Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancer who are HPV-positive may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with head and neck cancer by enhancing immune responses against tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune suppression in cancer, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Le, Quynh-Thu Xuan — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Le, Quynh-Thu Xuan
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.