Targeting a specific receptor to improve radiation therapy for colorectal cancer

Project 1: Inhibition of Complement C5aR1 Radioprotects Normal Tissue and Radiosensitizes Tumors

['FUNDING_P01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-10914185

This study is looking at how blocking a specific receptor in the immune system can make radiation therapy work better for people with colorectal cancer while also helping to protect healthy tissues from damage, aiming to improve treatment results and reduce side effects.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10914185 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how inhibiting the complement receptor C5aR1 can enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy in treating colorectal cancer while protecting normal tissues from radiation damage. By focusing on the immune response and apoptosis pathways, the study aims to improve patient outcomes by reducing side effects associated with radiation treatment. The approach involves both laboratory and animal models to evaluate the effects of C5aR1 inhibition on tumor response and tissue preservation during radiation therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer who are undergoing radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than colorectal cancer or those not receiving radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective radiation treatments for colorectal cancer with fewer side effects for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune pathways to enhance cancer treatment, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Model

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.