Understanding how a protein called LRP5 affects immune cells in cancer

A novel signaling mechanism for LRP5

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11097183

This research explores how a specific protein influences immune cells called NK cells, which are important for fighting cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11097183 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Cancer treatments are improving, especially with new immunotherapies, but we still have much to learn about how our immune system fights cancer. This project focuses on a protein called LRP5 and its role in regulating natural killer (NK) cells, which are a type of immune cell that can destroy cancer cells. We believe LRP5 might control NK cell activity through a new pathway, potentially by affecting how these cells use fats. By understanding this new mechanism, we hope to find new ways to boost the immune system's ability to fight tumors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit those with various cancers by improving future treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not receive benefit from this basic science investigation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new targets for developing more effective immunotherapies to treat cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanism of LRP5 in NK cells is novel, the broader field of cancer immunotherapy has shown significant success in recent years.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Treatment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.