Targeting GARP-TGFβ to Improve Immunotherapy in NSCLC
Official title: Targeting GARP-TGFbeta for Immunotherapy of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11400422 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new antibody approach aims to block a key TGFβ-related pathway in the tumor environment to help people with non-small cell lung cancer respond better to therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,812,958 |
| NIH project number | 4R01CA282501-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11400422 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with non-small cell lung cancer, especially those who may benefit from enhanced anti-tumor immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose tumors do not rely on GARP-TGFβ signaling or who cannot tolerate antibody therapies may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on a targeted antibody (PIIO-1) that blocks GARP, a protein that activates TGFβ in the lung tumor environment. By inhibiting GARP, the therapy aims to reduce immune suppression and improve the activity of immune cells against the cancer. The work combines preclinical models and translational steps to move findings toward human use, with the goal of reducing side effects seen with broad TGFβ inhibition. If successful, this could lead to a new treatment strategy that complements existing immune checkpoint therapies for NSCLC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with NSCLC could have better responses to immunotherapy and potentially improved survival.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical models show that targeting GARP-TGFβ can enhance anti-tumor immunity in certain contexts, supporting further development.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Zihai — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Li, Zihai
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Blocking a protein called GARP to help the immune system fight non-small cell lung cancer
A new antibody that targets GARP is being developed to reduce immune-suppressing TGFβ in tumors and help people with non-small cell lung cancer respond better to immunotherapy.
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.