Improving lung cancer treatment by targeting specific immune cells

Targeting Tumor-Associated Macrophages via Hedgehog Inhibition to Enhance Immunotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11115022

This study is looking at a new way to help people with non-small cell lung cancer by targeting certain immune cells to make cancer treatments work better, and if you join, you might get access to promising new therapies that could improve your health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11115022 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can be targeted to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy. By inhibiting hedgehog signaling in these immune cells, the study aims to improve the recruitment and function of CD8 T cells, which are crucial for fighting cancer. The research will involve a multi-center phase Ib clinical trial to evaluate the combined effects of hedgehog inhibition and anti-PD-L1 therapy on patients with NSCLC. Patients participating in this research may receive new treatment options that could lead to better outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage lung cancer or those who do not have non-small cell lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy treatments for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting tumor-associated macrophages to enhance cancer immunotherapy, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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 immunotherapy
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.