Improving cancer immunotherapy with SMAC mimetics
Official title: Enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy by optimal use of SMAC mimetics
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10986072 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a new type of treatment called SMAC mimetics can make existing cancer immunotherapies, especially those that block a protein called PD-1, work better for patients with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,240 |
| NIH project number | 5K22CA279077-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986072 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing treatment for cancers that are currently treated with PD-1 blockade therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not receiving PD-1 blockade therapies or those with cancers not responsive to immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how SMAC mimetics can enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer immunotherapy treatments, particularly those that block the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1). The approach involves understanding the specific conditions under which SMAC mimetics work best when combined with PD-1 blockade therapies. By utilizing advanced techniques such as machine learning and single-cell technologies, the research aims to develop personalized treatment strategies that could lead to better outcomes for cancer patients. The project is supported by a team of experts in cancer immunology and computational biology, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the problem.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments that improve patient survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing immunotherapy efficacy through combination therapies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gu, Shengqing — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Gu, Shengqing
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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.