Investigating how a specific immune response affects side effects of cancer immunotherapy

Role of the tumor NLRP3 inflammasome in the generation of anti-PD-1 antibody immunotherapy-associated toxicities

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11309702

This study is looking at how a part of the immune system called the NLRP3 inflammasome might cause side effects in cancer patients receiving a specific type of treatment, and it aims to find ways to better manage these side effects, especially in the lungs and colon.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11309702 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the immune-related adverse events (irAEs) that can occur with anti-PD-1 antibody immunotherapy in cancer treatment. By using a genetically engineered model of melanoma, the study aims to understand how these adverse events develop and how they can be managed more effectively. The researchers are particularly focused on the mechanisms that lead to inflammation in the lungs and colon, which are common sites of toxicity. The findings could help improve treatment protocols and reduce the negative impacts of immunotherapy on patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing anti-PD-1 antibody immunotherapy for cancer treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving immunotherapy or those with conditions unrelated to cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management of side effects associated with cancer immunotherapy, improving patient quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune-related adverse events in cancer therapies, but this specific approach is novel.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
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.