Understanding how melanoma cells present antigens to the immune system
Official title: MHC class II antigen presentation in melanoma: impact on immune recognition
Funded at Phoenix VA Health Care System · NIH-10872997 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in melanoma cells help the immune system recognize and fight tumors, with the goal of finding better ways to improve cancer treatments for people with melanoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Phoenix VA Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Phoenix, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX005336-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872997 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are melanoma patients who are undergoing or considering immunotherapy treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with melanoma who are not eligible for immunotherapy or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of MHC class II proteins in melanoma cells and how they affect the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy tumors. The study aims to explore the function of MHC class II and an enzyme called GILT in regulating the immune response against melanoma, particularly in relation to immunotherapy treatments like anti-PD-1. By analyzing how these proteins influence T cell activity, the research seeks to uncover new strategies to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies for melanoma patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy treatments for melanoma, potentially increasing survival rates for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that enhancing MHC class II expression in melanoma cells can improve responses to immunotherapy, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Phoenix VA Health Care System
Phoenix, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hastings, Karen Taraszka — Phoenix VA Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Hastings, Karen Taraszka
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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.