Using gene therapy to enhance the immune response against breast cancer
Official title: Novel gene delivery to modulate the tumor microenvironment and antigen-specific antitumor immunity
Funded at Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-11093582 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat breast cancer by using a special virus to help your immune system recognize and fight cancer cells better, which could lead to a more effective treatment for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Methodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $610,783 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA283580-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093582 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer who have not responded well to conventional therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancers or those who have already received extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating breast cancer by using a specially designed virus to deliver a gene that causes cancer cells to die. The therapy aims to modify the tumor environment to promote a stronger immune response against the cancer. By combining this gene therapy with an immune checkpoint antibody, the goal is to train the body's immune cells to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Patients may benefit from a more targeted and effective treatment option that could improve their chances of recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective treatment for breast cancer that harnesses the body's immune system to fight the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using gene therapy and immune modulation in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Shu-Hsia — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Chen, Shu-Hsia
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.