How natural killer cells help fight lung cancer
Immunesurveillance of Lung Cancer by Natural Killer Cells
This study is looking at how special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells can help fight non-small cell lung cancer, especially for patients who haven't had success with current treatments, to find new ways to make these cells better at attacking cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11030223 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of natural killer (NK) cells in the immune response to lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It aims to understand how these cells can be harnessed to improve treatment outcomes for patients, especially those who do not respond to current therapies. The study will explore the mechanisms by which NK cells recognize and attack cancer cells, focusing on the importance of cell adhesion molecules in this process. By analyzing patient samples and using animal models, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets to enhance NK cell activity against lung tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those who have not responded to existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with lung cancer who are already responding well to current therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy options for lung cancer patients, improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing NK cell activity in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keshamouni, Venkateshwar G — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Keshamouni, Venkateshwar G
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.