Research – Head and Neck Surgery

Head and Neck Surgery

The USC Head and Neck Center is committed to advancing patient care through cutting-edge research that spans translational laboratory investigations to bedside clinical trials. Each research program is driven by a dedication to innovation and personalized care, ultimately leading to improved clinical outcomes for our patients and the broader Southern California communities.

USC Head and Neck Cancer Translational Research Laboratory

The USC Head and Neck Cancer Translational Research Laboratory aims to identify novel therapeutic targets and patient-specific treatment strategies for head and neck cancers. Under the leadership of Dr. Uttam Sinha and Dr. Albert Y. Han, the laboratory serves as a bridge between bench research and clinical practice, bringing new discoveries from the lab to patient care.

At the core of our research is the use of three-dimensional organoid models—miniature, patient-derived tumor replicas that faithfully mimic early tumor development. These models allow us to study how head and neck cancers develop and interact with other cells in its microenvironment, facilitating cancer progression. By leveraging this system, we can test potential therapeutic compounds in the lab before advancing to clinical trials, improving the efficiency and precision of drug discovery.

In addition to therapy development, our research investigates the tumor microbial environment, focusing on the microbiome and human papillomavirus types. We have demonstrated that distinct bacterial populations and HPV strains influence tumor behavior and treatment response. By gaining a deeper understanding of these interactions, we aim to develop better biomarkers and targeted therapies, ensuring more effective and personalized cancer treatment.

Faculty Researchers: Uttam K. Sinha, MD; Albert Y. Han, MD, PhD

Exposome and Social Determinants of Cancer Outcomes

At USC Head and Neck Center, we recognize that a patient’s environment—from modifiable lifestyle choices to more fixed social and structural determinants—plays a significant role in cancer development and prognosis. Our research leverages single-institutional and multi-institutional national databases to analyze the impact of the exposome, which encompasses cumulative environmental exposures and life experiences (e.g., air quality, tobacco and alcohol use, diet, and more). A major focus of our work is investigating the link between recreational drug use and head and neck cancer outcomes. For instance, we are studying how cannabis use and other substances influence tumor progression and patient survival. Additionally, we are exploring community-specific variables, such as socioeconomic disparities, healthcare access, and geographic risk factors, to understand how these elements contribute to cancer rates and treatment outcomes.

By comprehensively assessing these environmental and social interactions, we aim to identify high-risk populations and modifiable risk factors that can lead to prevention programs and policy interventions. Our approach reflects a commitment to holistic cancer care, striving to make a lasting impact on both individual patients and the broader community.

Faculty Researcher: Niels C. Kokot, MD

Thyroid Cancer Disease Modeling and Precision Medicine

The USC Thyroid Center, led by Dr. Daniel Kwon, brings together a multidisciplinary research team to enhance our understanding of thyroid cancer biology and clinical outcomes. By combining advanced genomic analysis, disease modeling, and tailored therapeutic strategies, our research program ensures that patients at USC Thyroid Center receive the most advanced, individualized, and effective treatments available. A key aspect of our research is the genomic characterization of thyroid cancers, with a particular focus on BRAF and TP53 mutations, among others. By introducing these mutations into laboratory-based disease models, we can study the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving thyroid cancer progression—from the most common subtype, papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), to the highly aggressive anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). These novel techniques to model thyroid cancer will provide avenues to develop therapy and improve outcomes, especially for patients with treatment-resistant thyroid cancers.

Faculty Researchers: Daniel Kwon, MD; Liyang Tang, MD