How gut microbes affect cancer treatment success in lung cancer patients

Metabolite driven mechanisms by which gut microbes impact checkpoint inhibitor success in non-small cell lung cancer patients

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10868733

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect how well certain cancer treatments work for people with non-small cell lung cancer, and it’s for patients who want to understand how their gut health could influence their treatment success.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868733 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of gut microbes in influencing the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). By analyzing stool samples and blood metabolites from patients, the study aims to identify specific bacteria and their metabolites that may enhance or hinder the response to cancer treatments. The research will involve a detailed examination of the gut microbiome and its interactions with the immune system over time, focusing on patients who have shown a durable response to treatment. The goal is to develop a better understanding of how gut health can impact cancer therapy outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer who are receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those not undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment strategies that improve the effectiveness of cancer therapies for lung cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut microbiome's role in cancer treatment, particularly in melanoma, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
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.