Targeting a protein involved in head and neck cancer growth

Targeting of RNA-binding protein FXR1 in HNSCC

NIH-funded research University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-10571379

This study is looking for new ways to treat head and neck cancer by targeting a protein called FXR1 that helps cancer cells grow, with the hope of creating better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-10571379 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a common and aggressive type of cancer. The study aims to identify new therapeutic strategies by targeting RNA-binding proteins, specifically FXR1, which play a crucial role in cancer cell growth and proliferation. By investigating how FXR1 interacts with specific RNA structures, researchers hope to develop inhibitors that can effectively disrupt this process and improve treatment outcomes for patients. The approach involves both molecular biology techniques and potential drug development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who have not responded to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancers or those who have not been diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve survival rates and reduce drug resistance in patients with head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While targeting RNA-binding proteins is a relatively novel approach, preliminary findings suggest that similar strategies have shown promise in other cancer types.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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 2026-06-13 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.