Creating a new system to find antibodies that target cancer cells

Development of a biparatopic-domain antibody screening system

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11012916

This study is working on a new way to find special antibodies that can target a protein linked to certain cancers, like lung adenocarcinoma and mesothelioma, which could help create better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012916 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel screening system to identify antibodies that specifically bind to a protein called mesothelin, which is overexpressed in certain cancers like lung adenocarcinoma and mesothelioma. By utilizing biparatopic human heavy chain domains, the researchers aim to discover more effective antibody binders compared to traditional methods. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to new therapeutic antibodies that target cancer cells more effectively, potentially improving treatment outcomes. The study involves laboratory techniques to analyze binding sites and optimize antibody designs for future clinical applications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma or mesothelioma who may benefit from targeted antibody therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not express mesothelin or those who are not eligible for antibody-based therapies may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments targeting mesothelin, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing targeted therapies for cancers using similar antibody approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.