Understanding how stromal cells affect head and neck cancer
Official title: Stromal Effects in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11106040 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in head and neck cancer work together and affect the growth of tumors, with the hope that understanding these interactions can help create better treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $371,719 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA288366-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11106040 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancers or those without a diagnosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between different cell populations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). By analyzing gene expressions at the single-cell level, the study aims to characterize specific stromal progenitor cells and their role in tumor progression. The researchers will utilize advanced genetic tools and animal models to explore how these stromal cells influence cancer behavior and potentially develop new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective cancer treatments tailored to the unique characteristics of their tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new cancer therapies that specifically target the tumor microenvironment in head and neck cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tumor microenvironments and their role in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Chi-Der — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Chen, Chi-Der
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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.