Investigating racial differences in head and neck cancer development
Racial differences in Immunogenetic Tumorigenesis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This study is looking at how head and neck cancer develops differently in African Americans compared to white patients, with the goal of finding out why African Americans may have worse outcomes, so we can improve treatments that help the immune system fight the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892704 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) develops differently in African Americans compared to whites. It aims to create a detailed immunogenetic map of tumor evolution, particularly looking at how genetic changes affect the immune response to precancerous lesions. By studying the early stages of tumor development and the immune microenvironment, the research seeks to identify critical genetic factors that contribute to the higher mortality rates observed in African American patients. This could lead to improved treatment strategies using immune checkpoint inhibitors for those affected by this type of cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma or those with precancerous lesions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have head and neck cancer or precancerous lesions, or those from other racial backgrounds, may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for head and neck cancer, particularly for African American patients who currently face higher mortality rates.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding racial disparities in cancer outcomes, but this specific approach focusing on immunogenetic factors in HNSCC is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sidransky, David — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Sidransky, David
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.