Investigating the role of gut bacteria in oral cancer
Functional roles of the human microbiome and metabolome in oral cancer
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your mouth might affect the development and treatment of oral cancer, specifically in people who haven't started treatment yet, to help find new ways to prevent and treat this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052367 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how changes in the human microbiome, particularly in the oral cavity, may influence the development and treatment of head and neck cancer, specifically oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The study aims to identify specific microbial and metabolic signatures associated with OSCC in patients who have not yet received treatment. Additionally, it will examine whether transferring microbiota from OSCC patients to mouse models can promote tumor growth, helping to uncover the underlying mechanisms involved. By understanding these interactions, the research seeks to pave the way for new prevention and treatment strategies for oral cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma who have not yet undergone treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of head and neck cancers or those who have already received treatment for OSCC may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative prevention and treatment options for patients with oral cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of the microbiome in cancer is an emerging field, this specific approach to studying its impact on oral cancer is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frank, Daniel N — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Frank, Daniel N
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.