Targeting a specific type of lung cancer using the body's immune system
Official title: Targeting LKB1-null lung adenocarcinoma with innate immune system
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10886819 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a tough type of lung cancer that has a specific gene mutation and is trying to find out how the body's immune system can be used to fight it, especially by comparing how male and female bodies respond, which could help develop better treatments for patients with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 12, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $412,067 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA284648-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10886819 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma that has LKB1 mutations, particularly those who have not responded to existing therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung adenocarcinoma that does not have LKB1 mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates lung adenocarcinoma that has mutations in the LKB1 gene, which is often resistant to standard cancer therapies. The study aims to understand how the innate immune system can be harnessed to target these cancer cells, particularly focusing on the differences in immune responses between male and female hosts. Using a genetically engineered mouse model, researchers will explore the mechanisms behind the immune system's ability to eliminate LKB1-mutant lung cancer. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with this challenging form of lung cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that effectively target LKB1-mutant lung adenocarcinoma, improving outcomes for patients with this type of cancer.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting innate immunity in cancer is being explored, this specific focus on LKB1-null lung adenocarcinoma is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Wei — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Wei
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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.