Understanding how certain proteins affect resistance to cancer treatment in head and neck cancer.
Cooperation of the TAM and Abl family kinases in therapeutic resistance in HNC
This study is looking into why some people with head and neck cancer don’t respond well to a common treatment called cetuximab, and it aims to find ways to make the treatment work better by focusing on certain proteins in their tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086617 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind why some patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) become resistant to a common treatment called cetuximab. By analyzing tumor samples and using advanced models, the researchers aim to identify specific proteins, particularly AXL, that contribute to this resistance. They will explore how mutations in these proteins affect treatment outcomes and test a combination therapy that includes cetuximab and a drug that inhibits AXL signaling. This approach could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients who do not respond to standard therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer who are undergoing treatment with cetuximab.
Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancer who are not receiving cetuximab or those with early-stage disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with head and neck cancer who currently experience resistance to existing therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success with this approach.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wheeler, Deric L — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Wheeler, Deric L
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 below.