Using Natural Killer Cells to Fight Cancer
NK cells, their receptors and cancer therapy
['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-11112330
This project is developing new ways to use natural killer (NK) cells to treat cancers like acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11112330 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project explores how special immune cells called Natural Killer (NK) cells can be used to fight cancer. Researchers are working to create readily available 'off-the-shelf' NK cell treatments, moving beyond treatments that rely on a single donor. These new NK cell products might be used alone or combined with other immune-boosting medicines. A key part of this work includes a clinical trial for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) using a specific type of NK cell.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) who are at least 21 years old may be ideal candidates for future clinical trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancer is not AML or MDS, or who do not meet specific age and health criteria, may not directly benefit from this particular approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to more accessible and effective immune cell therapies for patients with certain blood cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this group has shown a clinical link between adaptive NK cells and reduced leukemia relapse, suggesting promise for this approach.
Where this research is happening
MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA — MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MILLER, JEFFREY S. — UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
- Study coordinator: MILLER, JEFFREY S.
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.