Investigating how PCSK9 affects the immune response to cancer treatment with radiation

Novel roles of PCSK9 in regulating the tumor immune microenvironment during radiotherapy

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10897264

This study is looking at how a protein called PCSK9 affects the immune system's response to radiation therapy in cancer treatment, and it hopes to find ways to boost the body's ability to fight tumors by blocking this protein, which could help improve outcomes for cancer patients receiving radiation.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10897264 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of a protein called PCSK9 in the immune response to cancer treatment using radiation. It aims to understand how PCSK9 influences the effectiveness of radiotherapy by regulating immune cell activation within tumors. The researchers will use advanced genetic techniques in mouse models to study how inhibiting PCSK9 can enhance the body's antitumor immune response during and after radiation therapy. This could lead to improved treatment strategies for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are undergoing or are eligible for radiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving radiotherapy 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 more effective cancer treatments by enhancing the immune response to radiotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing immune responses in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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 →

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.