A vaccine using stem cell-derived exosomes to prevent cancer
Official title: A Stem Cell Based Exosomal Vaccine for the Prevention of Cancer
Funded at University of Louisville · NIH-10791929 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of vaccine made from tiny particles called exosomes, which come from embryonic stem cells, to see if it can help the immune system fight against lung cancer, especially in people who are at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project start | February 17, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $173,764 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA277314-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10791929 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals at high risk for lung cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or exposure to known carcinogens.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already diagnosed with advanced lung cancer may not benefit from this preventive approach.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel vaccine approach that utilizes exosomes derived from embryonic stem cells to stimulate an immune response against cancer. By focusing on cancer-initiating stem cells, which are known to contribute to tumor growth and resistance to conventional therapies, the study aims to develop a method that could effectively prevent lung cancer. The methodology involves vaccinating mice with these exosomes to assess their ability to elicit an anti-tumor immune response and prevent cancer development without causing toxicity. If successful, this approach could lead to new preventive strategies for patients at risk of lung cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new preventive vaccine for lung cancer, potentially reducing the incidence of this deadly disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results with similar exosome-based vaccination strategies, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Louisville
Louisville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yaddanapudi, Kavitha — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Yaddanapudi, Kavitha
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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.