Using a new treatment to boost the immune response against pancreatic cancer

Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) Combined with CD40 Agonism as In Situ Vaccine Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10931663

This study is looking at a new way to treat locally advanced pancreatic cancer by using a special technique that destroys cancer cells and helps your immune system fight the cancer better, so if you're dealing with this type of cancer, this research might offer you a promising option.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931663 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to treating locally advanced pancreatic cancer by combining irreversible electroporation (IRE) with a CD40 agonist. IRE is a technique that destroys cancer cells while also releasing tumor antigens, which can help the immune system recognize and attack the cancer. The study aims to enhance this immune response by using a CD40 antibody that stimulates immune cells to better target the tumor. Patients receiving this treatment may benefit from improved local control of their cancer and reduced spread to other organs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with locally advanced pancreatic cancer who are not eligible for surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer or those who have already undergone extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective treatment for patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar immunotherapy approaches, suggesting potential for success in this novel combination treatment.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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 Advanced Cancer
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.