Targeting a specific protein to improve treatment for oral cancer

Targeting the stress-specific function of replication protein A in oral squamous cell carcinoma

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11034662

This study is exploring a new way to treat oral squamous cell carcinoma by targeting a specific protein that helps cancer cells repair their DNA, with the goal of making treatments like chemotherapy and radiation work better while being gentler on your body.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11034662 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to treating oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) by focusing on a specific protein involved in DNA replication stress. The study aims to selectively target the replication protein A (RPA) complex, which plays a crucial role in DNA repair and replication. By enhancing the effectiveness of existing treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, the research seeks to improve patient outcomes while minimizing toxicity. Patients may benefit from a more effective treatment strategy that specifically targets cancer cells without harming normal cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma who are undergoing or considering treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have oral squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less toxic treatment options for patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting DNA replication stress responses in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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 Anti-Cancer Agentsanti-cancer druganti-cancer therapy
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.