Understanding how radiation affects immune responses in cancer treatment

Dissecting the Role of Radiation in Regulation of MHC-I and Neoantigen Presentation

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10994078

This study is looking at how radiation therapy might make immunotherapy work better for people with soft tissue sarcomas by helping the immune system recognize and attack the cancer more effectively.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10994078 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how radiation therapy can enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy in treating soft tissue sarcomas. By using genetically engineered mouse models, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which radiation increases the presentation of tumor antigens, potentially improving patient responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors. The focus is on understanding the role of MHC-I molecules in this process, which could lead to better treatment strategies for patients who currently do not respond well to existing therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with soft tissue sarcomas who are considering or currently undergoing immunotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than soft tissue sarcomas or those who are not candidates for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with soft tissue sarcomas, enhancing their response to immunotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that combining radiation with immunotherapy can enhance treatment responses, suggesting that this approach has potential based on existing evidence.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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 →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy

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.