Exploring how mitochondrial function affects immune responses in melanoma
Official title: Targeting mitochondrial vulnerabilities to drive intrinsic melanoma immunogenicity
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-11066543 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of our cells called mitochondria affects the way our immune system fights melanoma, especially in advanced stages where treatments aren't working as well, to find new ways to boost the immune response against the cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 4, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $128,798 |
| NIH project number | 5K99CA283154-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11066543 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with late-stage or metastatic melanoma who have not responded well to existing immunotherapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage melanoma or those who have not yet undergone immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondria in melanoma, particularly how their function influences the immune response against tumors. The study focuses on a specific mitochondrial component, complex I, and its impact on tumor cells and the surrounding immune environment. By analyzing tumor samples and immune cell activity, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could enhance anti-tumor immunity, especially in late-stage melanoma where current treatments are less effective.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve immune responses in patients with advanced melanoma.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in enhancing anti-tumor immunity through metabolic interventions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liang, Jiaxin — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Liang, Jiaxin
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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.