Improving colon cancer treatment with new immunotherapy approaches

Targeting iRhom to Improve Colon Cancer Immunochemotherapy

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11019635

This study is looking at how we can make immunotherapy work better for people with metastatic colorectal cancer who haven't had success with current treatments, by focusing on certain proteins called iRhom that affect cancer cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11019635 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), particularly those who do not respond to current treatments. The study investigates the role of iRhom proteins, which are involved in regulating cancer cell behavior, to develop novel immunochemotherapy strategies. By targeting these proteins, the research aims to improve patient outcomes and survival rates in mCRC. The approach includes analyzing the expression of iRhom1 in cancer cells and its correlation with treatment response.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer who have not responded to standard chemotherapy or immunotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage colorectal cancer or those whose cancer is not metastatic may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, particularly those who currently have limited choices.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for colorectal cancer.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Anti-Cancer Agentsanti-cancer drug
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.