Understanding how cancer cells respond to nucleic acids in the cytoplasm
Probing cytosolic nucleic acid sensing pathways in cancer
This study looks at how cancer cells notice and react to certain molecules in their environment that can cause inflammation and immune responses, with the goal of finding new ways to help the immune system fight cancer more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001157 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cancer cells detect and respond to double-stranded nucleic acids found in their cytoplasm, which can trigger inflammation and immune responses. The study focuses on the mechanisms by which cancer cells evade typical immune responses, particularly through the cGAS-STING pathway, and how they may instead activate other pathways that promote cancer progression. By examining these processes, the research aims to uncover new insights into anti-tumor immunity and potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers characterized by chromosomal instability, such as certain types of breast cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not exhibit chromosomal instability or those who are not currently undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing anti-tumor immunity in cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to nucleic acids in cancer, but this specific approach is exploring novel pathways that have not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Laughney, Ashley Marie — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Laughney, Ashley Marie
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 below.