KRAS G12C-targeted drugs and immune responses in lung cancer

Understanding and harnessing immune-modulatory effects of covalent KRASG12C inhibitors in KRASG12C-mutant non-small cell lung cancer

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11191416

This project looks at how KRAS G12C-targeted drugs change the immune response in people with KRAS G12C-mutant non-small cell lung cancer to find better drug combinations.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11191416 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

From a patient's perspective, researchers are studying how KRAS G12C inhibitors re-shape the tumor immune environment using lab models and analyses of human tumor samples and blood. They will test combinations of KRAS G12C drugs with standard treatments including platinum chemotherapy and PD-1 immunotherapy to find regimens that produce longer, deeper responses. The team will also examine how other genetic changes such as STK11, KEAP1, TP53, and RBM10 influence immune effects and treatment outcomes. Findings will be used to guide which combinations should move into clinical testing.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with non-small cell lung cancer that harbors a KRAS G12C mutation, especially those eligible for KRAS G12C-targeted therapy or immunotherapy, are the ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a KRAS G12C mutation or who have different cancer types are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Could identify drug combinations that make KRAS G12C inhibitors work longer and improve immune control of tumors.

How similar studies have performed: KRAS G12C inhibitors have shown clinical activity and preclinical work suggests they can boost anti-tumor immunity and cooperate with PD-1 blockers, but the best combinations and mechanisms are not yet proven.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Conditions Cancer Suppressor GenesCancer cell line
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.