Blocking the GRP94–TGFβ pathway to help the immune system fight cancer
Targeting GRP94-TGF-beta Pathway for Cancer Immunotherapy
['FUNDING_R01'] · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11171766
Aiming to block a protein network (GRP94 and GARP/TGFβ) so the immune system can better recognize and attack several types of cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11171766 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at proteins inside and on the surface of cancer cells that help tumors hide from the immune system. Researchers focus on GRP94, a cell chaperone, and its client GARP, which activates TGFβ to suppress immune responses. The team uses biochemical experiments, immune cell studies, and preclinical models to test whether disrupting this network reduces tumor immune evasion. The goal is to provide a path toward therapies, such as antibodies or combination immunotherapies, that could be tested in patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients whose tumors show high GARP expression or elevated TGFβ activity, or those eligible for early-phase immunotherapy trials, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not express GARP/TGFβ or those seeking only approved standard treatments may not directly benefit from this preclinical-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new immunotherapy approaches or drug combinations that make tumors more visible to the immune system and improve treatment responses.
How similar studies have performed: Research targeting TGFβ and other immune-suppressing pathways has shown promise in preclinical models and some early clinical combos, while direct targeting of GARP/GRP94 is newer but has encouraging preclinical results.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY — Columbus, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LI, ZIHAI — OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: LI, ZIHAI
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.