Using nanoparticles to enhance immune response against aggressive cancers
Official title: Dual action immunostimulatory nanoparticles for treatment of aggressive cancers
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11092920 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help your immune system fight cancer by using tiny particles that boost immune cells right in the tumor, making it easier for your body to recognize and attack the cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | June 26, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $540,823 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA278633-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092920 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with aggressive cancers who have shown resistance to current immunotherapy treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-aggressive cancers or those who are not eligible for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to cancer treatment by utilizing dual action immunostimulatory nanoparticles that aim to enhance the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy tumor cells. The nanoparticles are designed to target and activate dysfunctional immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, which often suppresses effective immune responses. By delivering specific molecules that block immune checkpoints and stimulate immune activity, this approach seeks to reprogram the tumor environment to support a stronger anti-cancer immune response. Patients may receive these nanoparticles directly into their tumors as part of the treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for aggressive cancers, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results using similar nanoparticle approaches to enhance immune responses in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karathanasis, Efstathios — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Karathanasis, Efstathios
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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.