Improving how breast cancer cells present antigens to the immune system

Targeting MAL2-mediated endocytosis to enhance tumor cell antigen presentation

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10888396

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10888396 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast cancer who may benefit from improved immunotherapy options.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than breast cancer or those who do not respond to immunotherapy may not receive benefits from this research.

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 performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing antigen presentation in cancer therapies, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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 Breast Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.