Plain-English translation of NCT06097468 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 1/2 — A combined trial that checks safety and dosing while also starting to look at whether the treatment works.
This trial is testing whether nisin, a naturally occurring food preservative already used in some foods, can help treat oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (a type of mouth cancer). Researchers want to see if taking nisin by mouth can change the bacteria in your mouth in ways that might fight the cancer and help you recover better after surgery.
Oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma is a serious cancer, and doctors are looking for new ways to improve outcomes beyond surgery and radiation. This medication may work by changing the balance of bacteria in your mouth, which might help your immune system fight the cancer.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You would take the medication by mouth once daily for 2 weeks before your planned surgery, then continue taking it once daily for 6 months after your surgery. Your medical team will perform your standard cancer surgery and any recommended radiation or chemotherapy as part of your regular care. During the study, you'll have dental exams to check your oral health and provide mouth bacteria samples for research. Follow-up visits will continue for 12 months after surgery to monitor how you're doing.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 24, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Phase
Safety & dosing / Early efficacy
Sponsor
University of California, San Francisco
Collaborators
University of California, Los Angeles, National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Enrollment target
~40 participants
Started
February 2024
Primary completion
March 2028
Age range
18 Years and older
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in April 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Narimane Badawi
University of California, San Francisco
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.