Investigating how a specific protein affects ovarian cancer progression

Role of exosomal SPHK1 in ovarian cancer progression

['FUNDING_R01'] · MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN · NIH-11015075

This study is looking at how a specific protein called SPHK1 affects the immune system's ability to fight ovarian cancer, with the hope of finding ways to make immunotherapy work better for patients like you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11015075 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) in ovarian cancer and how it influences the immune response against tumors. The study examines how SPHK1 is packaged in extracellular vesicles and its impact on the tumor microenvironment, particularly in relation to immune checkpoint inhibitors. By analyzing blood samples from ovarian cancer patients, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy for this type of cancer. The ultimate goal is to develop strategies that encourage the immune system to better recognize and attack ovarian cancer cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ovarian cancer who may benefit from new immunotherapy approaches.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not diagnosed with ovarian cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy options for ovarian cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While immunotherapy has shown success in other cancers, this specific approach targeting SPHK1 in ovarian cancer is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

MILWAUKEE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer immunotherapy, anti-cancer therapy, anticancer immunotherapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.