Understanding the genetic changes that lead to oral pre-cancerous conditions

Defining the mutational pathogenesis of oral preneoplasia

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11078007

This study is looking at the genetic changes in early mouth lesions that could lead to cancer, to help doctors figure out which ones might turn into cancer and which ones won't, so they can provide better care for patients with these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078007 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic mutations associated with oral preneoplastic diseases, which are conditions that can lead to oral cancer. By analyzing biopsies from patients over several years, the study aims to identify specific mutations that indicate whether these lesions will progress to cancer or remain stable. The approach involves advanced sequencing techniques to create a detailed map of the genetic changes in these lesions. This information could help develop better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for patients with oral dysplasia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with oral dysplasia or other pre-cancerous oral conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of oral dysplasia or those who have already been diagnosed with advanced oral cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting which oral lesions are likely to progress to cancer, allowing for more personalized and effective treatment plans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying genetic markers for cancer progression in other types of malignancies, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for oral preneoplasia as well.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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 Cancersneoplasm/cancer
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.