Targeting immune cells to improve treatment for head and neck cancer
Therapeutic Targeting of Macrophage PI3Kgamma in HNSCC
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10996191
This study is looking at a type of cancer called head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and is testing whether changing a specific enzyme in immune cells can help make current treatments work better for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10996191 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a common and aggressive cancer. It investigates how targeting a specific enzyme in immune cells, known as PI3Kgamma, can enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer therapies. By converting suppressive immune cells into ones that promote inflammation and activate T cells, the research aims to improve patient responses to treatments like checkpoint inhibitors. The approach is based on findings from mouse models and seeks to address the significant resistance many patients face with current therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those who have not responded well to standard therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage head and neck cancer or those whose cancer is not squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with head and neck cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune cells to enhance cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VARNER, JUDITH A — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: VARNER, JUDITH A
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 below.