Combining targeted radiation therapy with immune treatments for melanoma

Combinations of Receptor-Targeted Alpha Radionuclide Therapy and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Melanoma Treatment

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11025900

This study is exploring a new way to treat advanced melanoma, a serious skin cancer, by using a special therapy that targets a specific receptor in melanoma cells, hoping to make current treatments work better for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11025900 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to treating metastatic melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer, by combining receptor-targeted alpha radionuclide therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors. The study focuses on a specific receptor, the melanocortine-1 receptor (MC1R), which is highly expressed in melanoma cells. By developing novel peptides that target this receptor, the research aims to improve imaging and treatment outcomes for patients. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and potentially provide a new treatment option for those with advanced melanoma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic melanoma who have not responded adequately to current treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage melanoma or those who have not been diagnosed with melanoma 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 metastatic melanoma, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches combining targeted therapies and immune treatments, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.