Understanding immune cells in oral lesions to predict cancer risk

Single-cell immune landscape in the oral dysplasia's malignant transformation

NIH-funded research University of the Pacific-Stockton · NIH-11128775

This work looks closely at immune cells in oral lesions to find early signs that might tell us which ones are more likely to turn into oral cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of the Pacific-Stockton NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stockton, United States)
Project IDNIH-11128775 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We are creating a detailed map of the immune cells found in oral dysplasia, which are pre-cancerous lesions in the mouth. By using advanced imaging and machine learning on archived patient tissue samples, we hope to discover specific immune patterns. These patterns could help predict which patients with oral dysplasia are at higher risk for developing oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma, a type of oral cancer. This information could lead to better ways to identify at-risk patients and guide the development of new treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is focused on understanding oral dysplasia and its progression to oral cancer, using existing tissue samples from patients who have had these conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of oral dysplasia or oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide new ways to predict which oral lesions are likely to become cancerous, allowing for earlier and more targeted interventions.

How similar studies have performed: This approach combines advanced imaging and machine learning in an innovative way to analyze immune features in oral dysplasia, building on existing knowledge of cancer immunology.

Where this research is happening

Stockton, 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.
Conditions Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.