Using immune cells to fight pancreatic cancer

Harnessing Cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific T-cells for pancreatic cancer immunotherapy

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11003693

This study is exploring a new way to help people with pancreatic cancer by using special immune cells that target a common virus, aiming to boost the body's ability to fight the cancer more effectively.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11003693 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel immunotherapy approach for pancreatic cancer by utilizing T-cells that specifically target cytomegalovirus (CMV). The study aims to enhance the immune response against pancreatic tumors by delivering neoantigens through a specialized peptide that helps these antigens penetrate tumor tissues. By activating CMV-specific T-cells, the research seeks to redirect the body's existing antiviral immunity to attack cancer cells, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients with this challenging disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer who may benefit from enhanced immune responses.

Not a fit: Patients with pancreatic cancer who do not have a sufficient immune response or those with other types of cancer may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new immunotherapy option for patients with pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates and treatment efficacy.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using immune responses against viral components to treat cancers, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer, anti-cancer immunotherapy, anticancer immunotherapy, cancer cell

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.