Using a new method to activate the immune response against cancer
Activation of the DNA-PK-dependent antiviral response as a novel cancer immunotherapy
This study is exploring a new way to boost cancer treatment by using a special method to help your immune system fight tumors that usually don’t respond to current therapies, and if successful, it could make a real difference for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001479 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to enhance cancer immunotherapy by activating a specific immune response pathway in tumor cells. The focus is on utilizing a DNA damage sensor called DNA-PK to stimulate the production of interferons, which can help recruit and activate immune cells in tumors that typically do not respond to existing therapies. By developing synthetic agents that trigger this pathway, the research aims to improve the effectiveness of cancer treatments, particularly for tumors that are resistant to current immunotherapy strategies. Patients may benefit from this innovative approach if it successfully enhances their immune response against cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with specific types of cancer that are known to be resistant to existing immunotherapy treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that are already responsive to current immunotherapy approaches may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments for patients with tumors that currently do not respond to immunotherapy.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in activating immune responses through similar pathways, but this specific approach using DNA-PK is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stetson, Daniel B — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Stetson, Daniel B
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.