Understanding how a specific receptor affects bladder cancer treatment responses and side effects

The role of AHR in modulatingimmunotherapy response and adverse events in bladder cancer

NIH-funded research Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-11014334

This study is looking at how a specific protein in bladder cancer might affect how well some patients respond to certain treatments and why some people have side effects or their cancer grows faster after treatment, with the goal of finding ways to help more patients get better care.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVan Andel Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Grand Rapids, United States)
Project IDNIH-11014334 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in bladder cancer, particularly how it influences responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and the occurrence of adverse events. The study aims to identify why only a subset of patients benefit from ICIs and why some experience rapid tumor growth after treatment. By analyzing RNA and protein expression in bladder tumors, researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that could predict treatment outcomes and improve patient care. The findings could lead to better strategies for managing bladder cancer and its treatment-related complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with bladder cancer who are considering or currently undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with bladder cancer who are not eligible for immune checkpoint inhibitors or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for bladder cancer patients, enhancing their response to immunotherapy and reducing adverse effects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune-related adverse events in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Grand Rapids, 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.
Conditions anti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.