Investigating bitter taste receptors in oropharynx cancer

Expression of Bitter Taste Receptors in Oropharynx Carcinoma

NA · Technische Universität Dresden · NCT05211427

This study is trying to see if bitter taste receptors in the throat are different in patients with oropharyngeal cancer compared to healthy people, which could help find new treatments.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorTechnische Universität Dresden (other)
Locations1 site (Dresden, Saxony)
Trial IDNCT05211427 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the expression of bitter taste receptors in patients with p16-positive and negative oropharyngeal carcinomas compared to healthy tissue. The hypothesis is that these carcinomas express TAS2Rs, and their stimulation may induce apoptosis. The study will involve a pilot group of 20 patients, including those with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma and benign pharyngeal conditions, using qPCR and taste tests to analyze receptor expression and function. The findings could enhance understanding of oropharyngeal cancers and lead to new therapeutic approaches.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients diagnosed with p16-positive or negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to oropharyngeal cancer or those who do not meet the inclusion criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into treatment strategies for oropharyngeal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel, similar studies investigating taste receptors in cancer have shown potential for new therapeutic insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Oropharynx SCC for the patient group
* signed informed consent for all

Exclusion Criteria:

-

Where this trial is running

Dresden, Saxony

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Oropharynx Cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.