Using Engineered Bacteria to Improve Cancer Treatment
Genetically-engineered Bacteria Overcome Therapy Resistance
This work explores how specially designed bacteria can help make treatments for metastatic pancreatic cancer more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11105991 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Metastatic pancreatic cancer is very challenging to treat, often resisting current therapies. This project focuses on using a type of beneficial bacteria, Bifidobacterium, which naturally targets and grows within tumors. Researchers are genetically engineering these bacteria to enhance their ability to reprogram immune cells within the tumor and boost the body's natural defenses. The goal is to combine these engineered bacteria with existing treatments like radiation and immunotherapy to better control both local and spreading cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is focused on patients with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) who may not respond well to current therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than metastatic pancreatic cancer, or those without treatment resistance, may not directly benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a new way to overcome treatment resistance in pancreatic cancer and improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary findings in animal models suggest that Bifidobacterium can enhance tumor control when combined with immunotherapy and radiation.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weichselbaum, Ralph R — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Weichselbaum, Ralph R
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.