Targeting a specific cancer mutation in liver cancer treatment
Neoantigen-specific T cell responses for Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma
This study is testing a new vaccine designed to help the immune system fight a rare and tough liver cancer called fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma, mainly affecting kids and young adults, by targeting a specific genetic change found in all patients with this cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088154 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a vaccine that targets a unique genetic mutation found in fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FLC), a rare and aggressive liver cancer affecting mainly children and young adults. The approach involves using a neoantigen-specific vaccine that stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells, combined with immunotherapy agents to enhance the immune response. The goal is to create a treatment option for patients with unresectable FLC, where traditional therapies have failed. By utilizing a common mutation present in all FLC patients, the vaccine aims to provide a universal treatment solution.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with unresectable fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly children and young adults.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of liver cancer or those whose FLC is resectable may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neoantigen-specific vaccines in cancer treatment, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yarchoan, Mark — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Yarchoan, Mark
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.