Understanding how certain cellular processes contribute to oral cancer development
Official title: Identifying novel contributors to Wnt/beta-catenin mediated epigenetic activity in the evolution of OSCC
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11093311 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific signaling pathway in our cells might help explain why some cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (a type of head and neck cancer) become harder to treat and spread, with the hope that this could lead to better treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 8, 2024 |
| Project end | May 7, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,774 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DE033918-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093311 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those without HPV involvement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of head and neck cancers or those with HPV-positive oral cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway in the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), a serious type of head and neck cancer. By using a mouse model, the study aims to uncover how changes in cellular behavior and gene expression, driven by this signaling pathway, contribute to the evolution of cancerous cells. The research focuses on understanding the mechanisms that lead to therapy resistance and metastasis, which are significant challenges in treating OSCC. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatment strategies targeting these cellular processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway in various cancers, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fisher, Emily — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Fisher, Emily
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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.