Using a new approach to enhance immune response in Small Cell Lung Cancer

Targeting DHX9 to trigger viral mimicry and immunotherapy responsiveness in Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

NIH-funded research Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-10981356

This study is exploring a new way to boost immunotherapy for people with Small Cell Lung Cancer by targeting a protein called DHX9, which could help turn less responsive tumors into ones that the immune system can better fight.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10981356 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel method to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) by targeting a specific protein called DHX9. By inhibiting DHX9, the researchers aim to trigger an immune response that can transform 'cold' tumors into 'hot' tumors, making them more responsive to treatment. The approach involves inducing the production of viral-like nucleic acids within cancer cells, which can stimulate the body's immune system to attack the tumor. Patients may be monitored for changes in tumor behavior and immune response as part of this innovative treatment strategy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with Small Cell Lung Cancer who have not responded well to existing immunotherapy treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who have not been diagnosed with Small Cell Lung Cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with Small Cell Lung Cancer by enhancing their immune response against tumors.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting DHX9 is novel, similar strategies that enhance immune responses in cancer have shown promise in preliminary studies.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 Cancer ModelCancer TreatmentCancerModelCancers
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.