Preventing skin cancer through a vaccine targeting mutant p53
UV Photodamage to the Skin: Prevention by Mutant p53 Immunization
This study is testing a new vaccine that aims to help your immune system fight off skin cancers caused by UV rays by targeting specific changes in a gene called p53, and it's for people who want to reduce their risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10673138 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of a vaccine designed to target mutations in the p53 gene, which are commonly found in skin cancers caused by UV radiation. By immunizing patients against these mutant forms of p53, the study aims to stimulate the immune system to produce specific T-cells that can reduce the risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancers. The approach focuses on understanding how this immunization can prevent DNA damage and the subsequent carcinogenic effects of UV exposure. Patients participating in this research may receive the vaccine and be monitored for immune response and skin health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly those with a history of significant UV exposure or previous skin cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of skin cancer or significant UV exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel preventive strategy against skin cancers, significantly reducing the incidence of these malignancies.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of targeting mutant p53 for cancer prevention is innovative, similar immunization strategies have shown promise in other cancer types, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elmets, Craig a — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Elmets, Craig a
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.