Understanding how aging affects liver cancer and immune response

Project 4: Interrogating and harnessing age-related IFN signaling and innate immunity in HCC prevention and therapy

['FUNDING_P01'] · SANFORD BURNHAM PREBYS MEDICAL DISCOVERY INSTITUTE · NIH-10908398

This study is looking at how getting older affects the liver and its role in developing liver cancer, with the goal of finding better treatments for older patients facing this serious illness.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSANFORD BURNHAM PREBYS MEDICAL DISCOVERY INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10908398 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between aging and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a deadly form of liver cancer. It focuses on how age-related changes in the liver's immune environment, particularly through interferon signaling, contribute to the progression of HCC. The researchers aim to identify the complex roles of inflammatory cytokines in both promoting and inhibiting tumor growth, which could lead to new immunotherapy strategies. By studying these mechanisms, the project seeks to improve treatment outcomes for older patients with liver cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are at risk for or diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without liver cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy options for older patients suffering from liver cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses in cancer can lead to breakthroughs in treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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 →

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.