Using a drug to enhance immune response in HPV-related head and neck cancer
Project 3: Demethylation of HPV-associated head and neck cancer to trigger APOBEC synthetic lethality and enhance immune response
This study is looking at how a drug called 5-azacytidine might help people with HPV-related head and neck cancer by boosting their immune system to fight the cancer better, especially for those who have run out of treatment options after their cancer comes back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889241 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of a demethylating agent called 5-azacytidine on HPV-associated head and neck cancer. The study aims to understand how this drug can trigger a synthetic lethality effect, which may enhance the immune response against cancer cells. By examining the response of HPV-positive tumors to this treatment, researchers hope to identify new therapeutic options for patients who have limited choices after recurrence. The approach includes laboratory experiments and potential clinical applications based on the findings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who have experienced recurrence.
Not a fit: Patients with HPV-negative head and neck cancers may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options for patients with HPV-related head and neck cancer, potentially improving their prognosis.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with demethylating agents in various cancers, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Anderson, Karen S. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Anderson, Karen S.
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 below.