Investigating how to prevent regional recurrence of head and neck cancer
Official title: Targeting the Regulation of High Endothelial Venules in HNSCC Regional Recurrence
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11067411 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to stop head and neck cancer from coming back in the lymph nodes after treatment by boosting certain immune cells, which could help improve how the body fights the cancer and lead to better results for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $43,374 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DE034599-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067411 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 who are at risk for regional recurrence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced metastatic disease or those who have not been diagnosed with HNSCC may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding and preventing the recurrence of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) in lymph nodes after treatment. The approach involves targeting specific immune cells known as T-regulatory cells that interfere with the function of specialized blood vessels called High Endothelial Venules (HEVs). By using an agonist to enhance HEV function early in tumor development, the research aims to improve lymphocyte trafficking and reduce cancer cell quiescence, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. The study utilizes murine models to explore these mechanisms and their implications for human patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cancer recurrence in patients with HNSCC, ultimately improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune cells and enhancing blood vessel function in cancer models, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Olimpo, Nicholas a — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Olimpo, Nicholas a
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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.