Understanding how radiation affects immune cells in tumors

Investigating the Role of Radiation-induced Cell Death in Innate Lymphoid Cell Activation within Unique Tumor Microenvironments

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BECKMAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE/CITY OF HOPE · NIH-10812984

This study is looking at how radiation can help your immune system fight cancer by triggering the release of substances that get your immune cells, especially a type called innate lymphoid cells, to spring into action, which could lead to better treatments for cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBECKMAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE/CITY OF HOPE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DUARTE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10812984 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how ionizing radiation can act as a vaccine by releasing tumor antigens that activate immune cells, specifically innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). The study aims to understand the different types of cell death caused by radiation and how these affect the immune response in the tumor microenvironment. By examining the release of specific cytokines and the activation of ILCs, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could enhance anti-tumor immunity. This could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing radiation therapy for cancer who may benefit from enhanced immune activation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving radiation therapy or have non-cancerous conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy in treating tumors by improving the immune response against cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the concept of using radiation to stimulate immune responses is established, the specific mechanisms involving innate lymphoid cells in this context are novel and have not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

DUARTE, 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.