Telomere-targeting Therapy plus cemiplimab for advanced NSCLC
Official title: Novel Telomere-Targeting Therapy for Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Funded at Maia Biotechnology, INC. · NIH-11411298 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new drug called THIO, used with an immune therapy, is being tested for people with advanced non-small cell lung cancer whose previous treatments stopped working.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Maia Biotechnology, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 9, 2025 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $770,168 |
| NIH project number | 5R44CA309843-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11411298 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with stage 3 or 4 NSCLC whose disease progressed after prior checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose cancer does not respond to THIO or cemiplimab or who experience intolerable adverse effects may not benefit.
What this research studies
This trial tests THIO, a direct telomere-targeting agent, in combination with the immune checkpoint inhibitor cemiplimab for patients with stage 3 or 4 NSCLC who have become resistant to prior treatments. It is a multicenter, open-label, single-arm Phase 2 study to evaluate safety and preliminary efficacy. Participants will receive THIO alongside cemiplimab to see if the combo can control the cancer and improve outcomes. The study builds on preclinical data suggesting THIO can selectively kill telomerase-active cancer cells and work well with immunotherapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience tumor control and improved survival or quality of life from a new treatment option.
How similar studies have gone: Early data suggest potential synergy between telomere-targeting agents and immune therapies, but this exact combination in NSCLC is investigational.
Where this research is happening
-
Maia Biotechnology, INC.
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zaporojan, Victor — Maia Biotechnology, INC.
- Study coordinator: Zaporojan, Victor
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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.