Investigating how certain blood vessels in tumors affect cancer immunity
Role of intratumoral high endothelial venules in tumor immunity
This study is looking at how certain blood vessels in tumors can help bring in immune cells to fight cancer, and it aims to improve cancer treatments by tweaking a specific protein to boost this immune response, which could lead to better outcomes for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052568 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of high endothelial venules (HEVs) in tumors and their impact on the immune response to cancer therapies. The study aims to explore how these specialized blood vessels can facilitate the recruitment of immune cells, such as T cells and B cells, into tumors, which is crucial for the effectiveness of immunotherapies. By manipulating the R-Ras protein, which is involved in the formation of HEVs, the researchers hope to enhance the immune response against tumors, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes for patients. The approach includes using genetic models to assess the effects of R-Ras on HEV formation and tumor immunity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with tumors that are currently unresponsive to existing immunotherapies.
Not a fit: Patients with tumors that already have a high density of immune cells or those not receiving immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy treatments for cancer patients by enhancing the immune system's ability to target and destroy tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing tumor immunity through the manipulation of blood vessel structures, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Komatsu, Masanobu — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Komatsu, Masanobu
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.