How the SOX2 gene helps some cancers resist immunotherapy
Dissecting the Sox2-orchestrated transcriptional network that governs immune resistance in tumor initiating cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-11248037
This project looks at how a gene called SOX2 lets certain squamous cell cancers survive immunotherapy so researchers can find ways to prevent tumor relapse.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11248037 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you have squamous cell carcinoma, this work aims to understand why some tumors come back after immunotherapy by focusing on a gene called SOX2. Researchers will study tumor-initiating cells that respond to TGFβ using genetically engineered mouse models and laboratory analyses of the genes those cells turn on. They will map the SOX2-driven transcriptional network that helps these cells evade or resist immune attacks. The goal is to find molecular targets that could be developed into drugs or combination treatments to stop relapse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with squamous cell carcinomas (for example head and neck SCC) who have received or may receive immunotherapy are the group most likely to benefit from future therapies based on this research.
Not a fit: Patients with non-squamous cancers or those seeking immediate treatment changes are unlikely to get direct benefit from this preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent tumors from returning after immunotherapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked tumor-initiating cells and SOX2 to therapy resistance, but using a detailed SOX2-driven network to prevent immunotherapy relapse is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MIAO, YUXUAN PHOENIX — UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: MIAO, YUXUAN PHOENIX
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.
Conditions: Cancer Relapse, Cancer Treatment, Cancers