Developing a cancer immunotherapy targeting Merkel cell carcinoma
Official title: Merkel cell polyomavirus HLA class I epitopes for generating therapeutic T cell-based cancer immunotherapy
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-11009573 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a type of skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma and aims to find ways to help the immune system better fight it by creating targeted treatments, like vaccines, that can recognize and attack the cancer cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 9, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $703,510 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA279391-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009573 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma, particularly those with virus-positive tumors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral forms of Merkel cell carcinoma or other types of skin cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a serious skin cancer linked to the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). The project aims to identify specific viral T cell epitopes that can be used to create targeted immunotherapies, including cancer vaccines. By analyzing a wide range of human HLA alleles, the researchers are developing a platform to generate T cells that can effectively recognize and attack cancer cells. This innovative approach seeks to enhance the immune response against MCC and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapies for patients with Merkel cell carcinoma, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted immunotherapies for other virus-associated cancers, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keskin, Derin B — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Keskin, Derin B
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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.