Personalized vaccine therapy combined with anti-PD-1 treatment for head and neck cancer
Personalized vaccine immunotherapy in combination with anti-PD 1 antibody for recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
This study is testing a new treatment for people with recurring or advanced head and neck cancer by using a personalized vaccine made from their own tumor cells, combined with a medication that helps the immune system fight the cancer better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11042183 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new treatment approach for patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck by combining personalized vaccine immunotherapy with anti-PD-1 antibodies. The therapy aims to enhance the immune response against tumors by using a vaccine made from the patient's own tumor cells, which is designed to stimulate the immune system more effectively. By tailoring the vaccine to the unique characteristics of each patient's cancer, the researchers hope to improve treatment outcomes for those who do not respond well to existing therapies. The study will involve creating tumor membrane vesicles that present specific tumor antigens alongside immunostimulatory molecules to boost the anti-tumor immune response.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck who have not responded to standard treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage head and neck cancer or those who have not yet undergone treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment options and outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer who currently have limited responses to existing therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with similar personalized vaccine approaches in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shin, Dong M — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Shin, Dong M
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.