NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating genetic factors in immune-related side effects from cancer immunotherapy

Official title: IL-6 and IL-6R genetic polymorphisms in immune-related adverse events caused by cancer immunotherapy

Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10997213 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain genes might affect the chances of experiencing side effects from cancer immunotherapy, especially for those using immunocheckpoint inhibitors, and it aims to help identify patients who may be at higher risk so that we can find ways to reduce these side effects while still keeping the treatment effective.

More Immunotherapy research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project startJuly 1, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$401,115
NIH project number1R21CA287678-01A1
Project IDNIH-10997213 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy who may be at risk for immune-related adverse events.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not receiving immunotherapy or those with no genetic predisposition to immune-related adverse events may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how genetic variations in the IL-6 and IL-6R genes may influence the occurrence of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in patients receiving cancer immunotherapy, particularly immunocheckpoint inhibitors. By analyzing patient samples, the study aims to identify those at higher risk for these side effects and explore mechanisms that drive these reactions. The goal is to develop strategies to minimize these adverse effects while maintaining the effectiveness of cancer treatments. Patients may be asked to provide genetic samples and health information to support this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment plans that reduce the risk of severe side effects from cancer immunotherapy.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that genetic factors can influence the occurrence of adverse events in other treatments, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Colorado Denver
    Aurora, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rincon, Mercedes — University of Colorado Denver
  • Study coordinator: Rincon, Mercedes

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.