Special antibodies to fight cancer spread
Developing novel bispecific antibodies for cancer treatment
This research is creating new, specialized antibodies to help stop cancer from spreading throughout the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115817 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are working on a new type of antibody, called a bispecific antibody, that can target two different things at once. One part of the antibody aims for cancer cells that have a specific marker, like HER2, while the other part targets growth factors that help tumors grow and spread. By hitting both targets, these antibodies are designed to help the body's immune cells remove cancer cells and the growth factors that feed them. Early results in lab models suggest this approach could be more effective than current treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant for patients with cancers that express specific markers like HER2 and rely on growth factors like VEGFA for tumor growth and spread.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not have the specific targets for these bispecific antibodies may not directly benefit from this particular approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more powerful antibody therapies that are better at preventing cancer from spreading and improving patient survival.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies using these bispecific antibodies in mouse models have shown promising results in reducing cancer spread and extending life.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Zhen — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Fan, Zhen
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.