Understanding how cells communicate in head and neck cancer progression.
Official title: Elucidating mechanisms of cellular communication critical for head and neck cancer progression and metastasis.
Funded at Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-11009922 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different cells in head and neck tumors work together and affect cancer growth, with the goal of finding better treatments for patients with head and neck cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $43,374 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DE033292-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009922 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those with aggressive disease or treatment-resistant cases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with head and neck cancer caused by HPV or those with non-squamous cell carcinoma types may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between different cell types within head and neck tumors, particularly focusing on how these interactions contribute to cancer progression and metastasis. By examining the molecular signaling pathways and the role of immune cells, such as neutrophils and B cells, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that drive tumor growth and resistance to treatment. The research utilizes mouse models to explore these cellular dynamics, which could lead to the development of targeted therapies for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies that improve survival rates and treatment options for patients with head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular interactions in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights and advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University (Charles River Campus)
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kroehling, Lina — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Kroehling, Lina
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting gene switches that drive spread in head and neck cancer
Researchers are testing whether blocking specific epigenetic controls can reduce invasive and metastatic behavior in people with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
-
Understanding how certain genes affect cancer spread in head and neck cancer
This study is looking at how a specific type of cancer in the head and neck spreads, and it's trying to find new ways to stop it by testing a special treatment that could help improve care for patients with this cancer.
-
Lymph node metastasis and immune tolerance in head and neck cancer
A study in people with head and neck cancer looks at how cancer spread to lymph nodes may shape the immune system and help tumors grow.
-
Targeting how RMS cells fail to mature to slow or stop pediatric muscle cancer spread
A project to understand why a pediatric muscle cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma spreads, and to test ideas that could slow or stop it by helping cancer cells mature properly.
-
Combined Imaging and RNA Markers to Predict Head and Neck Cancer Recurrence
A research project aims to use imaging and RNA data to better predict if head and neck cancer will come back, helping doctors tailor treatments for patients.
-
Biomarker to guide treatment in head and neck cancer
A biomarker test using tumor samples is being developed to predict recurrence risk in oral cancers and help tailor treatment.
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.