Finding new cancer treatments from marine microbes
Discovery of PD-1/PDL-1 inhibitors from marine microbial natural products
This study is looking for new small drugs from ocean microbes that can help boost the immune system's ability to fight cancer by blocking a specific checkpoint called PD-1, and if successful, these drugs could offer a fresh option for cancer treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877154 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on discovering small molecule drugs that can inhibit the PD-1 checkpoint, a target in cancer immunotherapy. By utilizing a vast collection of marine microbial samples, the team will screen for compounds that can effectively bind to PD-1, which is crucial for activating the immune response against cancer cells. The project involves collaboration between the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Nanjing University, where promising candidates will be tested in laboratory models. If successful, these small molecules could provide a new avenue for cancer treatment, potentially offering advantages over existing antibody therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that are currently treated with PD-1 inhibitors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have cancer or those whose cancers are not responsive to PD-1 inhibitors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective cancer treatments that enhance the immune system's ability to fight tumors.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using marine microbial metabolites is innovative, similar research has shown promise in discovering new anticancer agents from natural products.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fenical, William — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Fenical, William
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.