Using a virus to improve breast cancer treatment with immune therapies

Systemic delivery of an oncolytic adenovirus targeting TGFβ to enhance anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapy for triple negative breast cancer

NIH-funded research Endeavor Health Clinical Operations · NIH-11057511

This study is testing a new way to boost the effectiveness of current immune therapies for triple negative breast cancer by using a special virus that helps the immune system fight the cancer better, and it’s designed for patients who are looking for improved treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEndeavor Health Clinical Operations NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Evanston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057511 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to enhance the effectiveness of existing immune therapies for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by using an oncolytic adenovirus that targets TGFβ, a protein that suppresses the immune response. The study aims to deliver this virus systemically to patients, which could help overcome resistance to current treatments like anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapies. By inhibiting TGFβ pathways, the goal is to create a more favorable tumor environment for immune attack. Patients may receive this treatment in conjunction with standard therapies to improve their outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer who have not responded to existing immune therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-triple negative breast cancer or those who have not yet undergone immune therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment responses for patients with triple negative breast cancer who currently have limited options.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using similar viral approaches to enhance cancer immunotherapy, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Evanston, 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.