Reprogramming immune cells to fight cancer using targeted nanoparticles
Developing macrophage reprogramming mRNA nanocarriers for initial clinical testing
This study is exploring a new way to help your immune system fight ovarian cancer by using tiny particles to change certain immune cells, called macrophages, so they can better attack tumors instead of helping them grow, and it aims to ensure this method is safe for patients who have not responded to traditional treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10884875 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which typically support cancer growth, to instead promote anti-tumor immunity. The approach involves using specially designed nanoparticles that deliver mRNA to these immune cells, encouraging them to adopt a cancer-fighting M1 phenotype without causing harmful side effects. The research aims to develop a protocol for producing these nanoparticles at scale and to assess their safety for potential use in treating chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer patients. If successful, this could lead to innovative treatments that enhance the body's ability to combat cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer who have not responded to standard chemotherapy treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage ovarian cancer or those who have not undergone chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for patients with chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using nanoparticles for immune cell reprogramming is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in preclinical studies, indicating potential for success in clinical applications.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stephan, Matthias — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Stephan, Matthias
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.