Using a Three-Dimensional Culture Model for Circulating Tumor Cells in Head and Neck Cancer Combined With Molecular Bioassays to Guide Drug Choice and Improve Survival

What this Trial Is About

Cancer continues to be a leading cause of death worldwide, with metastasis being the primary reason why cancer spreads and becomes deadly. Researchers are investigating circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which are rare cancer cells found in the blood that play a key role in cancer spread. This project focuses on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and aims to better understand the behavior of these CTCs, their interaction with different organ tissues, and how they respond to various cancer drugs using a three-dimensional (3D) organoid culture model. The study uses an established device to isolate highly pure and viable CTCs from patients. These cells are then grown in a 3D organoid culture system that mimics the environment of metastatic organs like lung, bone, soft tissue, and liver. Researchers will observe how CTCs behave in this organoid model and test their responses to several cancer drugs including pembrolizumab, nivolumab, cetuximab, cisplatin, 5-FU, and taxanes. The project also involves examining genetic changes in rapidly growing CTCs within the organoids to identify genes linked to cancer spread. Participants will provide blood samples for isolating CTCs, which will be analyzed for cell density, specific protein markers, and cytokine levels. The study includes regular monitoring of these cells and their responses in the organoid system. Researchers aim to use these findings to help select the most effective systemic drugs for treating HNSCC and improving patient survival. The total study duration is planned for three years, allowing detailed characterization and drug testing of patient-derived cancer cells in a laboratory setting.

Using a 3D Culture Model for Circulating Tumor Cells Combined With Molecular Bioassays in Patients With HNSCC Cancer