Enhancing cancer treatment by activating immune cells with a new virus
Actively engaging NK cells during virotherapy to induce neoantigen-specific antitumor immunity
This study is testing a new cancer treatment that uses a specially designed virus to help your body’s immune system fight tumors better, and it’s for people looking for more effective options in their cancer care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11097276 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to cancer treatment using a specially designed virus that targets tumors while also activating the body's natural killer (NK) cells. The study focuses on a new type of oncolytic virus, FusOn-H2, which is engineered to improve the immune response against cancer cells. By combining this virus with a mechanism that engages NK cells, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and stimulate a specific immune response against cancer antigens. Patients may benefit from a more effective cancer therapy that harnesses both direct viral action and immune system activation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced cancers, particularly those who may benefit from immunotherapy and virotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those who do not respond to immunotherapy may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments that improve patient outcomes and survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using oncolytic viruses and immune cell activation for cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Shaun Xiaoliu — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Shaun Xiaoliu
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 below.