Understanding how precancerous lesions in the mouth turn into invasive cancer

Mapping immuno-genomic drivers of the head and neck precancer invasive-disease transition

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10930096

This study is looking at how a common mouth condition called oral leukoplakia can turn into a serious type of cancer, and it's for people with oral leukoplakia who want to learn more about their condition and how to catch any changes early.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10930096 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the transition of oral leukoplakia, a common precancerous condition, into oral squamous cell carcinoma, a lethal form of head and neck cancer. By examining the genetic and immune factors involved in this transition, the study aims to identify critical markers that could help in early detection and prevention of invasive cancer. Patients with oral leukoplakia may be monitored through histological and molecular evaluations to understand the progression of their condition. The goal is to develop strategies to intercept this deadly cancer at its earliest stages.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral leukoplakia or those at high risk for developing oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have oral leukoplakia or are not at risk for head and neck cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and prevention strategies for patients at risk of developing invasive oral cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the genetic and immunological factors in cancer progression, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.