Investigating how Schwann cells contribute to pain in oral cancer

Schwann cell activation in oral cancer perineurial invasion and neuropathic pain

NIH-funded research New York University · NIH-10814856

This study is looking at how certain cells in the body, called Schwann cells, affect the pain that people with oral cancer feel when the cancer spreads to nearby nerves, with the hope of finding better ways to manage that pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10814856 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of Schwann cells in the pain experienced by patients with oral cancer, particularly when the cancer invades nearby nerves. The study examines how these cells respond to cancer and contribute to pain severity through a process called perineural invasion. By using cell cultures and animal models, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind this pain and identify potential targeted treatments. The goal is to provide insights that could lead to better pain management strategies for oral cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with oral cancer who are experiencing neuropathic pain.

Not a fit: Patients with oral cancer who do not experience pain or have other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for managing pain in oral cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting Schwann cells in oral cancer pain is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding pain mechanisms in other types of cancer.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.