NCT00568490 · Stanford University
Identification of Secreted Markers for Tumor Hypoxia in Patients With Head and Neck or Lung Cancers
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to identify and confirm new blood and tissue markers for prognosis and tumor hypoxia. Tumor hypoxia, or the condition of low oxygen in the tumor, has been shown to increase the risk of tumor spread and enhance tumor resistance to the standard treatment of radiation and chemotherapy in head and neck and lung cancers.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to identify and confirm new blood and tissue markers for prognosis and tumor hypoxia. Tumor hypoxia, or the condition of low oxygen in the tumor, has been shown to increase the risk of tumor spread and enhance tumor resistance to the standard treatment of radiation and chemotherapy in head and neck and lung cancers. We have recently identified several proteins or markers in the blood and in tumors (including osteopontin, lysyl oxidase, macrophage inhibiting factor and proteomic technology) in the laboratory that may be able to identify tumors with low oxygen levels or more aggressive behaving tumors.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Tumor biopsy
For patients who undergo tumor biopsy or resection at Stanford, approximately 500 mg of the tumor will be removed from the resection specimen
PROCEDURE
Phlebotomy
Blood draw (approximately 20 cc) prior to any anticancer therapy Weekly blood draw (approximately 20cc) only for patients who are undergoing radiation treatment at Stanford University
Primary outcome measures
Identification of Secreted Markers for Tumor Hypoxia through tissue collection
Time frame: before therapy, weekly during therapy
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck sites or non-small cell lung cancer, or relatives of patients with histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
- Able to sign a Stanford IRB approved consent form
Exclusion criteria
- Refuse or unable to sign an IRB approved consent form.
- Refuse to be contacted in the future for follow up.
Where
- Stanford, California
Collaborators
National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations