A new immunotherapy to improve solid tumor treatment
Immunotherapy to deplete key Treg subsets in solid tumors
This project is developing a new type of immunotherapy to help more people with solid tumors like lung cancer and melanoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sonoval LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gaithersburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11168862 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Current immunotherapies, such as checkpoint inhibitors, are effective for only a fraction of patients with solid tumors, leaving a significant need for better treatments. This project focuses on regulatory T (Treg) cells, which are immune cells that can prevent the body from fighting cancer effectively. Researchers are creating a new drug called SON-211, designed to safely reduce these Treg cells within tumors. By targeting and depleting these specific cells, the goal is to boost the body's natural anti-tumor immune response and make existing immunotherapies work better for more patients. This new drug aims to overcome the serious side effects seen with older, similar treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with solid tumors, such as non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma, who have not fully responded to current immunotherapies, might be ideal candidates for future studies.
Not a fit: Patients without solid tumors or those whose cancer does not involve high levels of Treg cells may not benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new immunotherapy could make existing cancer treatments more effective for a wider range of patients with solid tumors and reduce severe side effects.
How similar studies have performed: An earlier Treg-depleting immunotherapy was on the market but had significant side effects, and a 'cleaner' version is approved in Japan, indicating the potential of this approach while highlighting the need for safer alternatives.
Where this research is happening
Gaithersburg, United States
- Sonoval LLC — Gaithersburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suzdak, Peter David — Sonoval LLC
- Study coordinator: Suzdak, Peter David
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.