Enhancing cancer treatment by improving immune cell signaling

Develop positive allosteric modulators to enhance XCR1 signaling in cancer

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11113081

This study is looking for new medicines that can help your immune system fight cancer better by making a specific receptor in your immune cells work more effectively, which could lead to better treatments for patients like you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11113081 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to develop new drugs that enhance the signaling of a specific receptor (XCR1) found in immune cells, which play a crucial role in fighting cancer. By improving the function of these immune cells, the project seeks to boost the body's ability to recognize and attack tumors. The researchers will use advanced techniques to identify small molecules that can positively modulate this receptor's activity, potentially leading to more effective cancer therapies. Patients may benefit from improved immune responses against their tumors if these new treatments are successful.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that may benefit from enhanced immune responses, particularly those involving the tumor microenvironment.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve XCR1 signaling or those who are not eligible for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer immunotherapies that enhance the body's natural ability to fight tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing immune responses through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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 →

Conditions: anti-cancer immunotherapy, anti-cancer therapy, anticancer immunotherapy

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.