What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the role of mutated p53 protein and YAP proteins in causing resistance to therapy in patients with recurrent head and neck tumors. The study focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and aims to understand the molecular networks driven by TP53 mutations that contribute to tumor relapse. It also explores the link between the timing of tumor recurrence and changes in these molecular pathways to help develop new treatment strategies. The study collects tissue samples from both the original tumors and their relapses. These samples are analyzed retrospectively for gene expression, mutations through next-generation sequencing, and single-cell RNA sequencing in a prospective cohort. Organoid cultures created from tumor tissues are used to study how tumors resist treatment and to test different drug combinations. Additionally, an in vivo mouse model is employed to evaluate treatment responses. Participants will provide tumor tissue samples and follow-up data for analysis. Researchers will monitor organoid cultures by measuring their size and number before and after treatments. The main outcome is the study of organoid cultures over 60 months. The study includes patients aged 18 years and older with head and neck squamous cell tumors, and it requires adequate tissue samples and at least one year of follow-up data for retrospective cases. Consent is obtained for all participants involved in prospective or retrospective parts of the research.

Study of the Contribution of Mutant p53/YAP Proteins to Therapy Resistance in Recurrent Head and Neck Cancer