How HLA genetics affects the immune system's ability to detect tumors

HLA genetics shapes tumor immunosurveillance

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11068006

This study is looking at how certain genes related to the immune system might help the body fight lung cancer, especially in smokers, using mice to learn more about how these genes work and how they could lead to better cancer treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11068006 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of HLA genetics in the immune system's ability to recognize and respond to tumors, particularly focusing on lung cancer. By using a mouse model, the study aims to understand how variations in HLA genes influence tumor development and the immune response. The researchers will explore the mechanisms by which HLA heterozygosity may provide protection against cancer, particularly in smokers. This work could lead to new insights into how the immune system can be harnessed for cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a genetic predisposition to lung cancer, particularly smokers or those with a family history of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers unrelated to HLA genetics or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer immunotherapies that better utilize the body's immune system to fight tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of HLA genetics in cancer immunity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 therapy
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.