Targeting a specific receptor to improve treatment for lung cancer

Targeting immunosuppressive adenosine in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11061370

This study is testing a new treatment that combines a drug called PBF-1129 with existing cancer therapies to see if it can help patients with advanced lung cancer fight their disease better by boosting their immune system.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11061370 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of an A2B adenosine receptor antagonist, PBF-1129, in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The study aims to enhance the effectiveness of current therapies by disrupting adenosine signaling, which tumors exploit to suppress immune responses. By conducting a phase Ib clinical trial, the researchers will evaluate whether this combination can improve patient outcomes compared to standard treatments. Patients participating in this trial may receive a novel treatment approach that could potentially enhance their immune response against the cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer who have not responded to standard immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage lung cancer or those who have not been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer who currently do not respond to existing therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting adenosine signaling in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this study.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.