Understanding how nerves in tumors affect pain in head and neck cancer
Intra-tumoral neurons contribute to head and neck cancer pain
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells in head and neck cancer tumors might affect pain differently in patients with HPV negative tumors compared to those with HPV positive tumors, and it hopes to find new ways to help manage that pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Research/usd NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sioux Falls, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061424 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of intra-tumoral neurons in head and neck cancer pain, focusing on how these neurons differ in HPV negative tumors compared to HPV positive ones. The study aims to understand how factors like HPV status and sex influence the characteristics of these neurons and their impact on cancer-related pain. By analyzing tumor-released small extracellular vesicles, the research seeks to uncover how these molecules may affect tumor innervation and pain signaling. This could lead to new approaches for managing pain in patients with head and neck cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer, particularly those with HPV negative tumors.
Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancer who are HPV positive may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients suffering from head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of intra-tumoral neurons in cancer pain is an emerging field, preliminary data suggest that similar approaches have shown promise in understanding tumor biology and pain mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Sioux Falls, United States
- Sanford Research/usd — Sioux Falls, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vermeer, Paola Drapkin — Sanford Research/usd
- Study coordinator: Vermeer, Paola Drapkin
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.