Improving diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer through epigenetic profiling

Profiling and Targeting Epigenetic Marks to Improve Diagnosis and Therapeutic Approaches in Head and Neck Cancer

Observational European Institute of Oncology · NCT06706973

This study is testing if looking at specific changes in genes can help doctors better diagnose and treat head and neck cancer in adults who haven't had treatment yet.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorEuropean Institute of Oncology Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, immunotherapy
Locations1 site (Milan, MI)
Trial IDNCT06706973 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the role of epigenetic marks in head and neck cancer (HNC) to identify potential therapeutic targets. It focuses on distinguishing between HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNC by analyzing unique histone modifications. The research aims to understand how these epigenetic changes contribute to tumorigenesis in HNC, which could lead to more effective treatment strategies. Participants will include adults diagnosed with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, larynx, oropharynx, who have not received prior treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with treatment-naïve primary squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

Not a fit: Patients who have previously undergone radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy for head and neck cancer may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic methods and targeted therapies for patients with head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in targeting epigenetic modifications in various cancers, suggesting potential success for this approach in head and neck cancer.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:• Age: Adults aged ≥ 18 years diagnosed with HNC

* Sex: Both male and female
* Human papilloma virus (HPV) test: Both positive and negative.
* Tumor: primary tumors, treatment naïve, squamous cell carcinoma
* Cancer stage: I-IV
* Anatomic location: oral cavity, larynx, oropharynx
* Tumor fragments not required for diagnostics

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous radiotherapy, chemotherapy or immunotherapy for HNC
* Unable to provide written informed consent

Where this trial is running

Milan, MI

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Head and Neck CancerPROFILING AND TARGETING EPIGENETIC MARKSHEAD AND NECK 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.