Using a compound to prevent head and neck cancer progression

Targeting oncogenic pathways for chemoprevention of head and neck cancer by FLLL12

NIH-funded research Marshall University · NIH-10497514

This study is looking at a compound called FLLL12, which is similar to curcumin, to see if it can help stop early signs of head and neck cancer from becoming more serious, and it's designed for people who are at risk of developing this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMarshall University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Huntington, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10497514 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the use of FLLL12, a compound similar to curcumin, to prevent the progression of premalignant lesions into invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The study investigates how FLLL12 interacts with specific cell signaling pathways, particularly by inhibiting Janus kinase (JAK)2 and the phosphorylation of STAT3, which are crucial for cancer cell growth and survival. By targeting these pathways, the research aims to develop a new chemoprevention strategy that could reduce the incidence of this aggressive cancer before it develops. The approach includes both laboratory studies on cancer cell lines and pharmacokinetic studies in animal models to assess the effectiveness of FLLL12.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with premalignant lesions in the head and neck region or those at high risk for developing squamous cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients who have already been diagnosed with invasive head and neck cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new preventive treatment for individuals at risk of developing head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using compounds similar to FLLL12 for cancer prevention, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Huntington, 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.