Using focused ultrasound to improve breast cancer treatment

Quantitative evaluation of focused ultrasound thermal therapy on immunogenic cell death in breast cancer

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-10997423

This study is looking at a new, non-invasive treatment using focused ultrasound to help boost the immune system's fight against triple negative breast cancer, which could make immunotherapy work better for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997423 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of focused ultrasound thermal therapy to enhance the immune response against triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). By inducing a specific type of cell death known as immunogenic cell death (ICD), the therapy aims to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with TNBC. The approach is non-invasive and seeks to target tumors while minimizing systemic side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. Patients may benefit from a novel treatment option that could lead to better outcomes in managing their cancer.

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 adequately to conventional therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancer diagnoses or those with breast cancer types other than triple negative may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, non-toxic treatment option that enhances the immune response against breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using immunogenic cell death in combination with other therapies, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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.