New therapy targeting LCN2 for KRAS lung cancer

Targeting LCN2, a novel therapy for lung cancer

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11239821

A treatment that blocks a protein called LCN2 aims to help people with KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancer respond better to immunotherapy and other treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11239821 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This project looks at whether blocking LCN2, a protein released by tumors, can help your immune system attack KRAS-driven non-small cell lung cancer. Researchers use genetic CRISPR screens and laboratory models, including studies in mice, to find how LCN2 suppresses anti-tumor T cells. They plan to develop ways (such as antibodies or inhibitors) to neutralize LCN2 and test whether adding those to current immunotherapies improves tumor control.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung adenocarcinoma, especially those whose tumors resist standard treatments, would be the main candidates.

Not a fit: Patients without KRAS-driven lung cancer or whose tumors do not show high LCN2 levels are unlikely to benefit from this specific approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this could make immunotherapy and standard treatments work better for people with KRAS-driven lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: LCN2 targeting is a newer, largely untested approach in patients, though other therapies that boost anti-tumor immunity have benefited some cancer patients.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.