Understanding how TBK1 affects immune responses in cancer treatment

Dissecting the tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic roles of TBK1 in tumor immunity

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10880605

This study is looking at how a protein called TBK1 affects the way our immune system fights cancer, especially for people who haven't had much success with current treatments, to see if targeting TBK1 can help boost their immune response and improve their treatment results.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10880605 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) in cancer immunity, particularly how it influences the effectiveness of immune checkpoint blockade therapies. By using genetic and pharmacologic methods, the study aims to determine how targeting TBK1 can enhance the immune response against tumors, especially in patients who have not responded well to existing therapies. The research will explore the interactions between TBK1 in cancer cells and immune cells, focusing on how this can lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with various cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with cancers that have shown resistance to immune checkpoint blockade therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that are not treated with immune checkpoint blockade therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by overcoming resistance to current immunotherapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune evasion mechanisms in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
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.