Improving how breast cancer cells present antigens to the immune system
Official title: Targeting MAL2-mediated endocytosis to enhance tumor cell antigen presentation
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10888396 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to help your immune system better recognize and attack breast cancer cells by focusing on a protein called MAL2, which could lead to more effective treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $443,556 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA276680-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888396 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast cancer who may benefit from improved immunotherapy options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers other than breast cancer or those who do not respond to immunotherapy may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the ability of breast cancer cells to present tumor antigens, which is crucial for effective immune responses. By targeting a specific protein called MAL2, the study aims to improve the presentation of these antigens on cancer cells, making them more recognizable to the immune system's CD8+ T cells. The approach involves manipulating the mechanisms that cancer cells use to evade immune detection, potentially leading to better outcomes in immunotherapy. Patients may benefit from this research through improved treatment options that harness their immune system to fight cancer more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapies for breast cancer patients by enhancing their immune response against tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing antigen presentation in cancer therapies, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Xinna — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Xinna
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.