Understanding and overcoming resistance to cisplatin in head and neck cancer

The Houston Center for Acquired Resistance Research (H-CARR)

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11010062

This study is looking at why some head and neck cancers don’t respond well to a common treatment called cisplatin, with the goal of finding better ways to detect and overcome this resistance, so patients can have more effective treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11010062 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a major cause of cancer-related deaths. It aims to uncover the biological mechanisms behind cisplatin resistance, a common challenge in treatment. By studying how cancer cells process cisplatin and the metabolic stress they experience, the research seeks to develop methods for early detection of resistance and strategies to overcome it. The project utilizes advanced imaging techniques and analysis of circulating tumor cells to gain insights into the cancer's response to treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who are undergoing treatment with cisplatin.

Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancers that are not treated with cisplatin or those with other types of cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with cisplatin-resistant head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cancer resistance mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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 Cancer CauseCancer Etiology
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.