Targeting a pathway that suppresses immune response in head and neck cancer
Official title: Targeting the CD73-adenosinergic pathway in head and neck cancer
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11088940 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called CD73 affects the immune system in patients with head and neck cancer who have used tobacco and alcohol, with the goal of finding better ways to improve treatment outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $677,163 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE032178-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088940 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those with a history of tobacco and alcohol consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-squamous cell types of head and neck cancer or those without a history of tobacco and alcohol use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC), particularly in patients with a history of tobacco and alcohol use. It investigates the role of the CD73 enzyme in the tumor microenvironment, which is known to contribute to immune suppression and poor patient outcomes. By understanding how CD73 and related pathways affect T cell activation, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that could enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments. The approach includes advanced spatial analysis techniques to assess immune interactions within tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with head and neck cancer by enhancing immune responses against tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune checkpoints similar to CD73, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cui, Yan — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Cui, Yan
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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.