Creating viral nanoparticles to enhance cancer immunotherapy for ovarian cancer
Official title: Engineering viral nanoparticles for TLR agonist-based multi-functional cancer immunotherapies
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11079607 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to use tiny viral particles to help improve treatments for ovarian cancer by boosting the immune system and changing the environment around tumors, which could lead to better results for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $130,350 |
| NIH project number | 5K99CA283299-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079607 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with ovarian cancer who have not responded adequately to standard treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage ovarian cancer or those who have not yet undergone any treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative nanomedicines using viral nanoparticles to improve treatment outcomes for ovarian cancer. By bioengineering these nanoparticles to target and reprogram the tumor microenvironment, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy. The approach involves utilizing specific viral structures that can activate the immune system and convert the suppressive environment surrounding tumors, potentially leading to better responses in patients. The study will explore the use of Toll-like receptor agonists to stimulate the immune system and improve the overall efficacy of treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy options for ovarian cancer patients, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using viral nanoparticles for cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Zhongchao — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Zhongchao
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.