How mitochondria affect the immune response in melanoma treatment
Official title: Mitochondrial Regulation of Interferon Response in Melanoma
Funded at Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-10906036 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny parts of our cells called mitochondria affect the immune system's ability to fight melanoma, with a focus on how certain signals can either help or hinder tumor growth, and the goal is to find new ways to improve treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,796 |
| NIH project number | 5F31CA278581-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906036 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with melanoma who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-melanoma skin cancers or those who are not eligible for immune-based therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondria in regulating the immune response to melanoma, particularly focusing on how interferons (IFNs) can either promote or inhibit tumor growth. By examining the mechanisms through which IFNs influence the expression of proteins that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, the study aims to identify new therapeutic strategies. The approach includes analyzing the effects of mitochondrial function on IFN signaling and its impact on tumor immunity. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for melanoma by enhancing the immune response against tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective melanoma treatments that harness the body's immune system to fight cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune responses in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Melissa — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Melissa
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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.