Understanding how head and neck cancer avoids detection by the immune system
Epigenetic Regulation of Head and Neck Cancer Immune Evasion
This study is looking at how a gene called NSD1 affects head and neck cancers and how changes in this gene might help the cancer hide from the immune system, with the hope of using patient samples to learn more about this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11018549 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific gene, NSD1, in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and how its inactivation affects the cancer's ability to evade the immune system. By examining tumor samples and cell lines, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind the reduced immune response in tumors with NSD1 mutations. The study will explore how these mutations lead to changes in DNA methylation and genomic instability, potentially impacting the tumor's visibility to the immune system. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help understand these processes better.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly those with NSD1 mutations.
Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancers that do not involve NSD1 mutations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune responses against head and neck cancers, improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting epigenetic mechanisms can enhance immune responses in various cancers, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Chao — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Lu, Chao
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.