NIH-funded research R01 grant

Using non-coding RNAs to predict HPV status and outcomes in oropharyngeal cancer patients

Official title: Immuno-inflammatory Response Non-coding RNAs as Predictors of HPV Status & Outcome of Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients

Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10747865 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain types of RNA in your blood can help us understand your immune response to HPV if you have oropharyngeal cancer, which could lead to better treatment options for you based on your specific needs.

More Status research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2019
Project endNovember 30, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$252,901
NIH project number5R01CA236859-05
Project IDNIH-10747865 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx who are undergoing treatment evaluation for HPV status.

Less likely to help

Patients with oropharyngeal cancer who are HPV-negative or those with other types of head and neck cancers may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of non-coding RNAs in the immune response to human papillomavirus (HPV) in patients with oropharyngeal cancer. By analyzing serum samples from patients, the study aims to identify specific RNA profiles that can predict HPV status and clinical outcomes. This could help tailor treatment strategies for patients, determining who may need more intensive therapy versus those who could benefit from less aggressive treatment. The approach focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms behind HPV-related cancer progression.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment plans for oropharyngeal cancer patients, improving survival rates and reducing treatment-related morbidity.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using non-coding RNAs as biomarkers in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although it remains a relatively novel area of investigation for oropharyngeal cancer specifically.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
    Houston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Li, Guojun — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Li, Guojun

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.