Developing a new cancer treatment using liposomes and mRNA to improve immune response
Official title: Liposome-based mRNA cancer immunotherapy targeting ion channels
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-10752680 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help patients with head and neck cancer by using a special treatment that boosts their immune system's ability to fight the cancer more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | December 9, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $215,846 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA277341-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10752680 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who have not responded to or have developed resistance to current immunotherapy treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those who have not been diagnosed with HNSCC may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing cancer immunotherapy for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a type of aggressive cancer that often resists current treatments. The approach involves using liposome-based mRNA to target specific ion channels that regulate T cell function and migration into tumors. By improving the ability of T cells to infiltrate and attack cancer cells, the research aims to overcome the limitations of existing therapies, particularly those that involve immune checkpoint inhibitors. Patients may benefit from a novel treatment that could enhance their immune response against tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with HNSCC, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting ion channels in cancer immunotherapy is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other types of cancers, indicating potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Conforti, Laura — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Conforti, Laura
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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.