NIH-funded research U01 cooperative agreement

Boosting the immune response against canine osteosarcoma using specialized immune cells

Official title: Generation of tumor specific immunity in canine osteosarcoma through dendritic cell hyperactivation

Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11255126 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at ways to boost the immune system in dogs with osteosarcoma by using special treatments that help important immune cells work better, with the hope that what they learn can also help improve cancer treatments for people.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTufts University Boston
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2022
Project endAugust 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$76,725
NIH project number3U01CA272268-03S1
Project IDNIH-11255126 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are dogs diagnosed with osteosarcoma who are eligible for immunotherapy treatments.

Less likely to help

Dogs with other types of cancer or those not diagnosed with osteosarcoma may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the immune response in dogs with osteosarcoma by hyperactivating dendritic cells, which are crucial for initiating T cell responses. The approach involves using a combination of tumor lysate and specific immune-stimulating agents to promote the migration and function of these cells. By studying this process in dogs, the researchers aim to create a model that closely resembles human cancers, potentially leading to better treatments for both species.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapies for dogs with osteosarcoma, improving their chances of recovery.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using dendritic cell hyperactivation in other cancer models, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Tufts University Boston
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: London, Cheryl a — Tufts University Boston
  • Study coordinator: London, Cheryl a

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.