Using nanoparticles to enhance immune response against pancreatic cancer
Use of a Nano-Enabled Platform for Pancreatic Cancer Immunotherapy
This study is exploring a new way to treat pancreatic cancer by using tiny particles to deliver chemotherapy that helps boost the immune system, making it better at fighting the cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10861827 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) by utilizing nano-enabled chemotherapy to stimulate the immune system. The study focuses on overcoming barriers to effective immunotherapy, such as low immunogenicity and the tumor's ability to evade immune detection. By delivering specific chemotherapeutic agents through lipid-bilayer coated nanoparticles, the research aims to induce immunogenic cell death, which can enhance the presentation of tumor antigens and create a more favorable tumor microenvironment for immune attack. The approach also includes targeting immunosuppressive pathways to improve treatment efficacy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who have not responded well to standard treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those with advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer that cannot be treated with immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy options for patients with pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using similar nano-enabled approaches to enhance immunotherapy, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nel, Andre Elias — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Nel, Andre Elias
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.