Preventing lung cancer by studying early changes in lung cells

Modeling lung squamous cell carcinoma premalignancy and prevention

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11096632

This study is looking for ways to stop lung cancer before it starts by using a special mouse model that simulates how humans are affected by cigarette smoke, and it aims to find effective prevention methods that could help people at risk of developing lung squamous cell carcinoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11096632 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on preventing lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by investigating changes in lung cells at the premalignant stage. The team is developing a novel mouse model that mimics human exposure to cigarette smoke and uses it to test potential prevention agents. By validating this model with human data, the researchers aim to identify effective strategies to stop the progression of premalignant lesions into cancer. This approach seeks to improve the translation of laboratory findings into clinical applications for lung cancer prevention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for lung cancer, particularly those with a history of smoking or exposure to harmful substances.

Not a fit: Patients who have already been diagnosed with advanced lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective prevention strategies for lung cancer, significantly reducing mortality rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using preclinical models for lung cancer prevention, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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 Cancers
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.