Enhancing cancer treatment by targeting autophagy
Targeting autophagy to enhance immune checkpoint inhibition
This study is looking at a new way to help patients with Stage IV melanoma by using a treatment that targets a process cancer cells use to survive, which could make immune therapies work better against their tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wistar Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913383 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to improve the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for patients with Stage IV melanoma by targeting autophagy, a process that cancer cells use to resist treatment. The project aims to understand how inhibiting autophagy can enhance the immune response against tumors when combined with ICIs. Researchers will explore the mechanisms by which autophagy inhibitors affect various immune cell types and tumor interactions, using advanced biotechnology tools. The study will involve testing these inhibitors in clinically relevant models to determine their potential benefits in cancer therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma who have not responded adequately to existing immune checkpoint therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage melanoma or those who have not been treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for Stage IV melanoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting autophagy to enhance cancer therapies, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Wistar Institute — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Amaravadi, Ravi K — Wistar Institute
- Study coordinator: Amaravadi, Ravi K
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.