Using modified bacteria to enhance cancer treatment
Reversing cancer immunosuppression using attenuated Listeria monocytogenes
This study is exploring a new way to help cancer treatment by using a modified bacteria that could boost your immune system's ability to fight tumors, making existing therapies work better for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061111 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of an attenuated strain of Listeria monocytogenes as a therapeutic vaccine to improve cancer immunotherapy. By injecting this modified bacteria directly into tumors, the study aims to alter the tumor microenvironment, making it more conducive for the immune system to attack cancer cells. The approach focuses on activating specific immune responses and reducing suppressive cells that hinder effective treatment. Patients may benefit from a novel method that enhances the effectiveness of existing cancer therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with solid tumors who are seeking innovative cancer therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with blood cancers or those who have already exhausted all available treatment options may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by improving the immune response against tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using microbial-based therapies for cancer treatment, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of California Berkeley — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Portnoy, Daniel a — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Portnoy, Daniel a
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.