Making head and neck cancer models better for finding new treatments

Improving the translational value of head and neck cancer patient-in-mouse models

['FUNDING_R37'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11114051

This work aims to improve how we use patient tumor samples in laboratory models to find more effective treatments for head and neck cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R37']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11114051 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

When patients have surgery for head and neck cancer, a small piece of their tumor can be used to create a special model, often by growing it in a mouse. These 'patient-derived models' help scientists understand how tumors grow and test new medicines. This project wants to make sure these models are as accurate and helpful as possible. We are looking at how different ways of handling the tumor samples and growing them in the lab affect the results, so that future discoveries are more reliable for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is relevant to patients with head and neck cancer whose tumor samples are used to create these laboratory models, and those who may benefit from future therapies developed using these improved models.

Not a fit: Patients not affected by head and neck cancer or those whose treatment is not informed by these specific laboratory models may not directly benefit from this particular research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more accurate and predictive laboratory models, speeding up the discovery of new and better treatments for head and neck cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While patient-derived models are commonly used, there is currently limited data on how initial handling decisions impact their accuracy, making this a novel approach to optimize their use.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.