Understanding how phosphatidylserine affects immune responses in tumors

Deciphering the immunomodulatory functions of phosphatidylserine in the tumor microenvironment

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11070612

This study is looking at how a substance called phosphatidylserine on cancer cells can help tumors hide from the immune system, and it's for anyone interested in finding better ways to boost cancer treatment by understanding how to overcome this immune suppression.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11070612 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of phosphatidylserine (PS) in the tumor microenvironment, focusing on how its exposure on tumor cells can suppress immune responses. By studying mouse models, the researchers aim to identify the mechanisms behind non-apoptotic PS exposure and its effects on immune cells, particularly tumor-associated macrophages. The goal is to uncover strategies to counteract the immunosuppressive effects of PS, potentially improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with tumors that exhibit immunosuppressive characteristics due to phosphatidylserine exposure.

Not a fit: Patients with tumors that do not express phosphatidylserine or those whose cancer is not influenced by the tumor microenvironment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting immunosuppressive factors in the tumor microenvironment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.