How gut microbes and genetics affect autoimmune reactions to cancer treatments

Host and microbe-dependent mechanisms of enhanced autoimmune susceptibility driven by checkpoint inhibitors

NIH-funded research Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10916256

This study is looking at how certain cancer treatments might cause immune system issues in people who are more likely to have autoimmune problems, and it aims to find ways to make these treatments safer for those patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916256 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are used to treat advanced cancers, can trigger autoimmune reactions in patients who are genetically predisposed. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind these immune-related adverse events (irAEs) by examining the interaction between the immune system and gut microbiome in a mouse model. By identifying the factors that contribute to these adverse effects, the research seeks to improve treatment strategies for patients at risk of autoimmune complications while receiving cancer therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced-stage cancers who have a history of autoimmune conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without any autoimmune conditions or those not receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer cancer treatments for patients with autoimmune predispositions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the relationship between the microbiome and immune responses can lead to improved treatment outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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 immunotherapyanticancer 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.