Investigating B cells in patients undergoing cancer therapy
B cells in autoimmunity following checkpoint blockade therapy
This study is looking at how a special cancer treatment called combination checkpoint blockade therapy affects certain immune cells called B cells in people with advanced melanoma and other cancers, to see if early changes in these cells can help predict any side effects from the treatment and improve safety without losing its effectiveness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10578752 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how combination checkpoint blockade therapy, which uses specific antibodies to treat advanced melanoma and other cancers, affects B cells in the immune system. The study aims to identify early changes in B cells that may predict immune-related adverse events (IRAEs) in patients receiving this therapy. By analyzing these immune cell changes, researchers hope to find ways to reduce the risk of autoimmunity and improve treatment outcomes without compromising the effectiveness of the cancer therapy. Patients may be monitored for specific immune responses that could indicate a higher likelihood of experiencing severe side effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced melanoma or other cancers who are undergoing combination checkpoint blockade therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving combination checkpoint blockade therapy or those with autoimmune diseases unrelated to cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help identify patients at risk for severe side effects from cancer therapy, allowing for preemptive interventions that enhance safety and treatment efficacy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding immune responses related to cancer therapies, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dhodapkar, Kavita Madhav — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Dhodapkar, Kavita Madhav
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 below.