Understanding how HPV affects head and neck cancer
Official title: Defining the Role of HPV Integration Structures in HNSCC Molecular Heterogeneity
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11146483 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the human papillomavirus (HPV) affects a specific type of throat cancer, aiming to find better ways to spot patients who might struggle with treatment, so they can get the help they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $593,861 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE032699-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11146483 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with HPV+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with HPV-negative head and neck cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of HPV integration in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ OPSCC), a type of head and neck cancer that is becoming increasingly common. The team aims to develop advanced sequencing techniques to better understand how HPV interacts with the tumor genome, which could help identify patients at higher risk of treatment failure. By analyzing tumor samples and using innovative sequencing methods, the researchers hope to uncover new insights into the mechanisms of HPV integration and its effects on cancer progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies and better patient outcomes for those affected by HPV-related head and neck cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding HPV's role in cancer, but this approach using advanced sequencing techniques is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brenner, John Chadwick — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Brenner, John Chadwick
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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.