Helping immunotherapy work for metastatic prostate cancer
Project 2: Re-directing the Sensitivity of Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer to Immunotherapy
A new antibody aims to help men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer respond to immunotherapy by blocking an immune-suppressing molecule released by tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11181018 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
My cancer makes a molecule called sMIC that weakens the immune system and helps tumors hide. Researchers created an antibody called huB10G5 to neutralize sMIC and tested it in lab and animal models. In those preclinical studies the antibody reduced metastases and boosted the effect of checkpoint immunotherapy while reducing some side effects. The antibody has been optimized for human use, shown safe in non-human primates, and the team is completing studies needed to begin human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, particularly those with bone metastases and prior standard therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with localized prostate cancer, non-castration-resistant disease, or tumors that do not release the sMIC immune-suppressing molecule are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could restore immune attack on prostate tumors, improve responses to immunotherapy, and potentially shrink metastases or extend life.
How similar studies have performed: This sMIC-targeting approach is novel with strong preclinical success, but similar strategies have not yet demonstrated proven benefit in people with prostate cancer.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Jennifer — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Wu, Jennifer
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.