Targeting specific proteins to overcome drug resistance in head and neck cancer
Targeting PI3Kalpha beta and the ErbB family of protein-tyrosine kinases in cisplatin-resistant head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC)
This study is looking for better treatment options for people with advanced head and neck cancer who aren't responding to the usual chemotherapy, by testing new drug combinations that target specific pathways in the cancer cells to help improve survival and reduce the chances of the cancer coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10667253 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving treatment options for patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) who have developed resistance to cisplatin, a common chemotherapy drug. The study investigates the role of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, which is often activated in these cancers, leading to treatment failure. By targeting specific proteins involved in this pathway, the research aims to develop more effective therapies that can enhance patient survival and combat cancer recurrence. Patients may be involved in trials testing new drug combinations that could potentially improve their treatment outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who have shown resistance to cisplatin treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage head and neck cancer who have not yet undergone cisplatin treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve survival rates for patients with cisplatin-resistant head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting the PI3K pathway has shown promise in preclinical studies, this specific approach in the context of cisplatin-resistant HNSCC is still being explored and is considered novel.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dan, Hancai — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Dan, Hancai
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.