Understanding how HPV causes head and neck cancer

Dissecting NF-kB pathway in HPV-associated head and neck cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-10992680

This study is looking at how the HPV virus might lead to certain throat cancers and how a specific signaling pathway in our cells could help us find out which patients with HPV are more likely to do well with gentler treatments, making their experience easier and less harsh.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10992680 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which the human papillomavirus (HPV) contributes to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). It focuses on the NF-kB signaling pathway, which may play a crucial role in the cancer's development and response to treatment. By analyzing data from multiple patient cohorts, the study aims to identify biomarkers that can predict which HPV+ patients are likely to benefit from less aggressive treatment options. This could help reduce the side effects associated with current therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with HPV-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancer not associated with HPV or those with other types of cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment plans for HPV+ head and neck cancer patients, potentially reducing treatment-related side effects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the NF-kB pathway in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Induction, cancer microenvironment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.