Combining a new treatment to boost immune response in advanced cancer patients

Phase II Clinical Development of Galectin-3 Inhibition and Anti-PD-1: Immune Monitoring and Tumor Response

NIH-funded research Providence Portland Medical Center · NIH-10919157

This study is looking at a new way to boost the immune system in people with advanced melanoma and head and neck cancer by using a combination of two treatments, hoping to help the body fight the cancer better and improve overall results.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionProvidence Portland Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10919157 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to enhance the immune response in patients with advanced melanoma and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by combining a Galectin-3 inhibitor with an anti-PD-1 therapy. The study aims to overcome the immune suppression caused by tumors, which often limits the effectiveness of current treatments. By targeting two mechanisms of immune suppression, the researchers hope to improve tumor regression and patient outcomes. Patients will be monitored for their immune response and tumor changes throughout the treatment process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced melanoma or head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who have not responded adequately to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those who have not been diagnosed with melanoma or head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with advanced cancers, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar immunotherapy combinations, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Portland, 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 Advanced Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.