Improving a targeted electric-pulse treatment (H-FIRE) for pancreatic tumors
Optimization of High Frequency Irreversible Electroporation (H-FIRE) for tumor ablation and immune system activation in pancreatic cancer applications
This project develops a focused electric-pulse approach designed to destroy pancreatic tumors and boost the immune response for people with pancreatic cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11301810 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my perspective as a patient, researchers are working with a form of targeted electrical therapy (H-FIRE) that uses short pulses delivered directly into tumors to cause cancer cell death. They are testing and fine-tuning pulse patterns and devices in mice and a newly developed pig model that mimics human pancreatic tumors to learn how the treatment works and how safe it is. The team will measure local tumor destruction, effects on surrounding tissues, and whether the treatment sparks an immune response that could reduce metastases or recurrence. The goal is to gather the safety and effectiveness data needed to move toward human clinical trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with pancreatic cancer—particularly those with localized or difficult-to-remove tumors—would be the most likely candidates for future H-FIRE clinical trials.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical work, patients should not expect immediate access or direct benefit now, and people with widespread metastatic disease or implanted electronic devices may be poor candidates for this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could become a new local therapy that destroys pancreatic tumors while also stimulating the immune system to lower the risk of spread and recurrence.
How similar studies have performed: Related electroporation treatments (like conventional irreversible electroporation) have shown promise in some clinical settings, but H-FIRE is a newer variation that remains primarily in preclinical testing.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allen, Irving C — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Allen, Irving 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.