Understanding circular RNAs in head and neck cancer

Regulation and Function of Viral and Endogenous Circular RNA in Cancer

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10877970

This study is looking at special RNA molecules in head and neck cancer, especially in patients with HPV, to learn how they might affect the cancer's growth and behavior, which could help us understand the disease better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877970 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), particularly those derived from the human papillomavirus (HPV). The team aims to uncover how these circRNAs function and are regulated, which could reveal new insights into cancer development. By analyzing tumor samples from patients with both HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC, the researchers will utilize advanced sequencing techniques to profile these RNA molecules. This comprehensive approach may lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving this type of cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those with HPV-related tumors.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers unrelated to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma or those without HPV involvement may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of circRNAs in various cancers, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, 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 Cancers
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.