Dietary trans-vaccenic acid boosts the immune response against tumors

Dietary trans-vaccenic acid enhances anti-tumor immunity

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-10985006

This study is looking at how a fatty acid found in some foods might help boost the immune system's ability to fight tumors, which could make cancer treatments work better for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10985006 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how dietary substances, specifically trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), can enhance the body's immune response to tumors. By analyzing a library of blood chemicals derived from diet, the study aims to identify which substances can improve the effectiveness of anti-cancer therapies, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors. The researchers focus on how TVA activates T cells and prevents their exhaustion, potentially leading to better outcomes for cancer patients. This approach combines dietary science with immunotherapy to explore new avenues for cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with cancer who are undergoing or considering anti-cancer therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing cancer treatment or those with non-cancerous conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or supplements that enhance cancer treatment effectiveness.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using dietary components to influence cancer treatment outcomes, suggesting this approach has potential.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.