TLR4-based mucosal melanoma immunotherapy formuation study
Official title: LiT4Q TLR4 Agonist Formulation for Mucosal Melanoma
Funded at Pai Life Sciences, INC. · NIH-11405329 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new immune-activating treatment using a TLR4 agonist is being studied to boost anti-tumor responses in mucosal melanoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pai Life Sciences, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $391,300 |
| NIH project number | 1R43CA298357-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11405329 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with mucosal melanoma or related cancer types who may be eligible for future immune-based therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tumors not responsive to TLR4-agonist strategies or with certain immune dysfunctions may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project explores a next-generation TLR4 agonist formulation (GLA-like) delivered to mucosal sites to stimulate immune cells against melanoma cells. It builds on prior work showing immune activation can reshape the tumor environment and potentially help control or eliminate tumors. The study leverages animal models and existing adjuvant formulations to test safety, dosing, and immune responses before potential human trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve outcomes for patients with mucosal melanoma.
How similar studies have gone: Prior TLR agonist strategies have shown immune activation and tumor responses in models and some human settings, but this work is preclinical.
Where this research is happening
-
Pai Life Sciences, INC.
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carter, Darrick Albert — Pai Life Sciences, INC.
- Study coordinator: Carter, Darrick Albert
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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.