Targeting a specific protein to improve treatment for oral cancer
Official title: Cadherins, contact normalization, and targeting podoplanin to treat oral cancer
Funded at Rowan University School/osteopathic Med · NIH-10437217 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how healthy cells can help slow down the growth of oral cancer cells by focusing on a protein called podoplanin, which is often found in higher amounts in oral cancer, and it aims to find new treatments that could help people with oral cancer feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rowan University School/osteopathic Med NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stratford, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $482,998 |
| NIH project number | 1R15CA271044-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10437217 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma or precancerous oral lesions expressing high levels of podoplanin.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous oral conditions or those without elevated podoplanin levels may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how nontransformed cells can influence the growth of oral cancer cells through a process called contact normalization. It focuses on the role of a protein called podoplanin, which is often overexpressed in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and is linked to cancer progression. By understanding the mechanisms behind this interaction, the research aims to develop targeted therapies that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with oral cancer. The approach includes studying cell interactions and the effects of specific antibodies on cancer cell behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that specifically target oral cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar proteins in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Rowan University School/osteopathic Med
Stratford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldberg, Gary S — Rowan University School/osteopathic Med
- Study coordinator: Goldberg, Gary S
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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.