Targeting MHC proteins to improve cancer and autoimmune disease treatments
Official title: Direct chemical targeting of MHC proteins for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10910441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to boost the immune system's ability to fight cancer by improving how cancer markers are shown to immune cells, and it may also help people with autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis and celiac disease by creating new treatments that better manage their conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,401,149 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2DK143366-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with specific cancer types or autoimmune diseases linked to MHC alleles, such as ankylosing spondylitis or celiac disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without the relevant MHC alleles or those with conditions not targeted by this research may not receive any benefit.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the immune response against cancer by improving the presentation of cancer-specific antigens by major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs). It aims to develop small molecule drugs that can stabilize MHC proteins, thereby increasing their ability to present these antigens to T cells. Additionally, the research explores how targeting specific MHC alleles linked to autoimmune diseases can help manage conditions like ankylosing spondylitis and celiac disease. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic options that better mobilize their immune systems against tumors or reduce autoimmune responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that enhance the body's ability to fight cancer and manage autoimmune diseases more effectively.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting MHC proteins with small molecules is a novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in related areas, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Ziyang — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Ziyang
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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.