Development and Characterization of a Protocol for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Organoids from Young and Elderly Patients: A Model for Studying Tissue Dynamics

• Grant number: 25/15286-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry
• Principal Investigator: Estela Kaminagakura Tango
• Grantee: Maria Leticia de Almeida Lança
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia (ICT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de São José dos Campos. São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent subtype of head andneck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), predominantly affecting men, smokers,and chronic alcohol consumers, primarily between the fifth and sixth decades of life.However, its incidence is increasing among young adults. This project aims todevelop and characterize tumor-derived organoids from HNSCC patients,comparing samples from two distinct age groups: young adults (18-39 years) andelderly patients (60-80 years). The objective is to investigate age-associatedbiological differences, focusing on tissue dynamics, gene expression, andtherapeutic responses. To achieve this, organoid cultures will be established fromtumor tissues, followed by histological, histochemical, immunofluorescent, andtranscriptomic (Visium) analyses. Drug sensitivity testing will also be performed.Comparing the two age groups may reveal important differences in tumor biologyand treatment response, contributing to advances in personalized medicine and thedevelopment of new therapeutic strategies.