Understanding how non-coding RNA affects immune cells in tumors
Official title: Non-coding RNA regulation of Myeloid Cells
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10991136 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules in our cells can influence immune cells that help fight tumors, with the hope of finding new ways to make cancer treatments work better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $483,706 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA294364-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991136 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with tumors that are influenced by immune cell interactions, particularly those undergoing or considering immunotherapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose tumors are not influenced by immune cell dynamics may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of non-coding RNA in regulating tumor-associated immune macrophages (TAMs), which are crucial for both fighting tumors and promoting their growth. By examining how these immune cells differentiate within the tumor microenvironment, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new cancer therapies. The research utilizes advanced techniques like single-cell transcriptomics and genetically modified mouse models to explore the effects of specific signals on TAM function. Patients may benefit from insights that could improve the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve cancer treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell regulation in tumors, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Henao-Mejia, Jorge — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Henao-Mejia, Jorge
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Comparing universal and guideline-directed genetic testing for young adults with cancer
This study is looking at whether a broader genetic test can help young adults with cancer find inherited risks that regular tests might miss, so they can get better treatment and care tailored just for them.
-
Better, searchable data for human pain biology
A data integration center will standardize, combine, and share molecular and cellular data from human pain research to help scientists understand how pain works and to accelerate discoveries.
-
Understanding how sweat glands form and work to help burn and skin injury patients
A study at the University of Pennsylvania looks at how sweat glands develop and function, with the goal of informing treatments for people who suffer traumatic skin injuries.
-
Cardiovascular risk planning and reduction for men with prostate cancer
A program to better predict and reduce heart disease risk in men treated for prostate cancer, especially older patients.
-
Understanding how a special airway cell helps protect and repair breathing passages
A researcher is studying a newly found airway cell called the hillock to see how it protects the airways and helps repair them after injury, with the aim of helping people with asthma, COPD, or bronchiectasis.
-
Defining TMJ cartilage progenitors and their regulatory niche for TMJ regeneration
Researchers are studying the cells that could help repair the jaw’s cartilage in TMJ osteoarthritis to lay the groundwork for regenerative therapies.
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.