Understanding how certain cancer cells remain dormant after treatment

Functional Analysis of Distinct and Co-existing Transcriptional Programs Regulating Tumor Dormancy

NIH-funded research Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11076690

This study is looking into how some cancer cells can stay quiet after treatment and what makes them wake up again, especially in head and neck cancer, to help find new ways to keep patients healthy for longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAlbert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076690 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms that allow certain cancer cells, known as disseminated tumor cells (DTCs), to remain dormant after the primary tumor has been treated. By focusing on specific transcription factors and signaling pathways, the study aims to uncover how these cells can either stay inactive or reactivate, potentially leading to metastasis. The research utilizes advanced techniques to analyze the behavior of these cells in various environments, particularly in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could prolong remission and improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have been treated for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and may have disseminated tumor cells.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent cancer recurrence and improve survival rates for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tumor dormancy and reactivation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Bronx, 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.
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.