How mitochondrial DNA affects cancer treatment and gut bacteria
Anti-tumor immunity and intestinal microbiota are modulated by mitochondrial DNA
This study is looking at how the DNA in our cells might affect how well immunotherapy works for people with advanced melanoma, and it’s exploring whether sharing gut bacteria from patients who respond well to treatment can help those who don’t respond as well.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080875 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between mitochondrial DNA and the effectiveness of anti-cancer immunotherapy, particularly in metastatic melanoma patients. It explores how fecal microbiota transfer from successful immunotherapy responders can potentially convert non-responders into responders. By studying different mouse models with varying mitochondrial DNA, the research aims to identify factors that influence the gut microbiota and its impact on anti-tumor immunity. The findings could lead to new strategies for enhancing immunotherapy responses in patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are metastatic melanoma patients who have not responded to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage melanoma or those who have not undergone immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve treatment outcomes for melanoma patients who currently do not respond to immunotherapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with fecal microbiota transfer in enhancing immunotherapy responses, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wallace, Douglas C — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Wallace, Douglas C
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 below.