How DNA damage in tumors affects immune responses

Tumor cell instrinsic DNA damage signaling to the immune response

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11085248

This study is looking at how cancer cells that have damaged DNA send signals to the immune system, and how those signals can either help or hinder the immune system's ability to fight the cancer, with the goal of finding better ways to treat cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085248 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between DNA damage in cancer cells and the immune system's response to that damage. It focuses on understanding how cancer cells communicate signals of DNA damage and how these signals can either activate or suppress the immune response against tumors. The study employs various methodologies, including cellular and biochemical techniques, as well as in vivo models, to explore these mechanisms in detail. By examining the role of specific pathways and proteins involved in this signaling, the research aims to uncover new insights that could enhance cancer therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with cancers characterized by DNA damage and those who may benefit from enhanced anti-tumor immune responses.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not exhibit significant DNA damage 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 improved cancer treatments by enhancing the immune system's ability to fight tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the immune response to DNA damage, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions anti-cancer immunotherapyanti-cancer therapyanticancer immunotherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.