Boosting cancer treatment effects using ATM targeting

Targeting ATM to boost systemic effects of radiotherapy and immunotherapy

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11026438

This study is looking at how focusing on a protein called ATM can make cancer treatments like radiation and immunotherapy work better by boosting the immune system's ability to fight tumors, which could lead to improved results for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11026438 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how targeting a specific protein called ATM can enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy and immunotherapy in cancer treatment. By manipulating the tumor environment, the goal is to increase the presence of immune cells that fight cancer, making the tumors more responsive to therapies. The study will explore the mechanisms behind this approach and test its effectiveness in improving patient outcomes. Patients may benefit from a more effective treatment strategy that combines these therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with tumors that have a high mutational burden or inflammatory characteristics, who are currently undergoing or considering immunotherapy or radiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with tumors that do not exhibit high mutational burden or inflammatory phenotypes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer treatment options that are more effective for a larger number of patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing cancer treatment through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this study.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions anti-cancer immunotherapyanti-cancer researchanti-cancer therapyanticancer immunotherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.